By Pablo Cheeks
Albanian international and British Basketball League fan favourite, Elvisi DUSHA is set to return to Plymouth and captain the Patriots in their third season as a BBL franchise.
Last season Dusha impressed with some of his best performances in the BBL, being named Player of the Month for November and finishing top ten in the point guard efficiency ratings as well as finishing third in assists per game for the season with 6.1. He also impressed off the court, with his charisma but more specifically, with his dedication and hard work with clubs and schools, giving young children something to aspire to.
Dusha, approaching thirty, is heading into his eleventh season in the BBL and as such has become known as the youngest veteran in the league. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, combined with his unselfish style of play, making him a welcome addition to any BBL club. In his ten years in the league he has gained the reputation of a dedicated, hard working professional that has excellent point guard abilities on both offence and defence, and can lead his team by example. Dusha has been consistent throughout, however has managed to improve his game with every passing season. He brings with him a wealth of experience.
Coach Paul James saw the signing as a no brainer. “He’s our captain and has led us from the Patriots very beginning,” said coach James, adding “He has always been a fantastic facilitator, and last season showed he can also be a scorer when we need him to. We’re very happy to have him back.”
Dusha has been the Plymouth City Patriots most popular player for the last two seasons as well as one of the clubs top players, being named as the team's Most Valuable Player for the 2022/23 season as well as being a firm fan favourite. In fact, his fans flock to stand courtside at every single home game, all decked out in Patriots branded clothing and all getting the opportunity to pass him the ball and have a multitude of things signed.
Dusha appeared focussed regarding his return to the Patriots, saying “ I can’t wait for season three with the club, the fans here are the best in the league and feel like family to me. Time to put on a show”
Patriots are the only Premier league sport in the city and only 1 of 10 clubs in the UK competing at the highest level of the sport attracting players from all around the world. Last season the patriots hosted Ex NBA players and the very best British basketball players as part of a major increase in the league exposure and growth around Europe.