An American college player has come to Coventry for a trial with the Crusaders to see if he can fill one of the vacant foreign spots in the team.

Marvin Harrison has flown in from his hometown of Shreveport, Louisiana to find a way to start his professional career.

He has just finished his fourth year of eligibility as a collegiate basketball player and could be a replacement for Adam Stevens.

Playing at Southern Arkansas University in the NCAA Division Two for the past two years, the 6ft 6ins forward was well known for his rebounding and inside power game.

His versatile style play could fit in well with the Crusaders who could use him as a power or swing forward, after the recent departure of American Adam Stevens.

Coach Dip Donaldson will be putting him through his paces this week in training sessions, as he and Harrison both evaluate his ability and willingness to fit into the organisation here in England.

Donaldson said:

"I know that there are huge differences between playing college basketball in the USA and the different levels of basketball in England.

“There are lots of differences between the two countries full stop, and we need to know if Harrison feels comfortable enough to stay, and if he is the talent and personality we are looking for.

“Not only will he be playing in our very competitive Conference league games, but he will also be doing community and school coaching, and promotional appearances.

“It is important for the individual who wants to continue his playing career from the USA college scene to the international level to be able to make the sacrifices and the transitions that will be required.

“Those kinds of things are hard to evaluate until there is some hands on experience. That’s why I feel this try-out period for Harrison is so crucial."