Coke is a 24-year-old, six foot six forward hailing from Canada, where he last represented Ontario Tech University.
He’s got big shoes to fill, replacing the outgoing grand final MVP Derek Murphy who has moved on to Neptune Basketball Club in Cork, Ireland.
Coke’s offensive stats are impressive, averaging 20 points a game last season on an efficient 42 per cent from the field, 35 per cent from three point distance and 73 per cent from the free throw line.
He also put up nine rebounds and three assists per game.
Beyond that though, what really excites Gators vice-captain Sam Beks is Coke’s defence.
“He’s very versatile and an elite defender capable of guarding multiple positions,” Beks said.
“He can shoot the three, and he’s got a high release.
“He’s only 24-years-old and very community-focused, which is really important to us when scouting players.”
Last season for Ontario, Coke averaged an impressive two steals and one and a half blocks a game, backing up Beks’ claims about his defensive prowess.
Beks described Coke as a dynamic forward who would likely play either small forward or shooting guard for the Gators.
Beks said this will be Coke’s first ever semi-professional season, and that other clubs in the Big V were interested in the Canadian, so it was a great get for the club.
Coke remains on Canadian soil for the time being, set to join the team in mid-February, but said he was excited to get to work.
“I can’t wait to bring my energy towards the team and towards the crowd,” he said.
“Let’s have a great season, let’s go Gators.”
