FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 27, 2024
Location: Huntsville, Texas
The Huntsville Dawgs are making history, becoming the first professional basketball team in Huntsville, Texas to join the National Basketball League-United States (NBL-US). The team will compete in the upcoming 2024-2025 Winter Season, with their season debut set for December 8th, 2024, in Houston, Texas. The Dawgs are poised to bring exciting, high-level basketball to the community of Huntsville and provide a platform for local talent to shine on the national stage.
The Dawgs’ first major roster move comes with the signing of Joseph “Jojo” Gilliam, an accomplished player who brings championship pedigree to the team. Gilliam, a student at Sam Houston State University, is no stranger to the NBL-US, having won an NBL-US Championship with East Houston United. Last season, he played a pivotal role in leading the Eastside Netz to the semifinals, further establishing himself as one of the league’s rising stars.
Gilliam, expressed his excitement and readiness to embrace his new leadership role:
“It’s an honor to be the first player signed by the Huntsville Dawgs, and I’m excited to represent this community at the professional level. Winning a championship with East Houston United was a pivotal moment in my career, and last season with the Eastside Netz taught me the value of perseverance and teamwork. I’ve learned from some incredible veterans, and now it’s my time to step up and lead. I’m looking forward to building something special here in Huntsville, and I’m ready to take on the responsibility of leading this team on and off the court. We’re aiming for nothing less than a championship, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Gilliam’s championship experience, combined with his drive to succeed, sets the tone for a team that aims to make an immediate impact in the league. Known for his leadership qualities and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, Gilliam will be the heart and soul of the Dawgs as they embark on their inaugural season.
Commissioner David Hutchinson Jr. on the Huntsville Dawgs
Commissioner David Hutchinson Jr., excited about the NBL-US expanding into Huntsville, shared his enthusiasm for the Dawgs joining the league:
“Bringing the Huntsville Dawgs into the NBL-US is a major milestone, not just for the league but for the city of Huntsville. This team will offer a new level of professional basketball to a passionate community that deserves to see its talent compete on the national stage. We’re thrilled to have a player of Joseph Gilliam’s caliber lead the team—his championship experience and leadership will be invaluable. We expect the Dawgs to be a competitive force in the league right from the start, and I’m eager to see how they perform this season. The future is bright for Huntsville basketball.”
Hutchinson added that the expansion of the league to Huntsville represents the NBL-US’s commitment to growing professional basketball in emerging markets and providing a platform for both players and communities to thrive.
About the Huntsville Dawgs
The Huntsville Dawgs are owned and operated by New Era Sports Management, an athlete marketing and branding company focused on promoting the careers of professional athletes while fostering strong community ties. As Huntsville’s first-ever professional basketball team, the Dawgs will not only aim to compete for championships but also to build lasting relationships within the community through outreach, school partnerships, and youth development programs.
Season Kickoff
The Huntsville Dawgs will make their debut on December 8th, 2024, in Houston, Texas, as part of the NBL-US Winter Season. Fans can expect high-energy basketball and a commitment to excellence from the new franchise as they aim to compete for the NBL-US Championship in their inaugural season.
For more information on the Huntsville Dawgs and the NBL-US, including updates, schedules, and more, follow them on social media:
Website: usnbl.com
Media Contact:
New Era Sports Management
Danielle Taylor
Email: dtaylor@newerasportsmanagement.com