Leicester Riders have signed Amber Smith and Maya Brewer for the remainder of the 2020-2021 WBBL season.

The Louisiana-native Amber Smith attended the University of Missouri and appeared in all 31 games as a senior averaging 11.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. During the 2019-20 campaign, the 5’11” forward had a season-high and beast of double-double with 27 points, 15 rebounds and four assists.

The three-year starter began her collegiate career as the 2017 SEC co-Freshman of the Year. She was also honoured as the 2019-20 Naismith Trophy Preseason Watch List and finished 20th on the Missouri scoring list with 1,299 points.

Prior to joining the Riders, Smith entered the 2020 WNBA draft, but went on to start her professional career in Greece. Unfortunately, due to the country lockdown, Smith was only able to play four games in the season.

“Amber is an undersized big that will create a lot of matchup troubles for our opponents,” said Head Coach Jesper Sundberg. “She is a good facilitator from the post and will fit right into our team.”

“Defensively her ability to defend players in the post and away from the basket gives us options to make in-game adjustments.”

Missouri-native, Maya Brewer, will also join the club for the remainder of the 2020-21 WBBL season.

Maya brings skill, athleticism and versatility to the Riders programme. She is described as an explosive slasher, good shooter and lockdown defender.

Brewer attended Wichita State for her Junior and Sophomore years. The 5’11” guard appeared in all 31 games and averaged 6.3 points and shot 41.1% from the field. In a win against Temple, she had a season-high 19 points.

Maya landed her first professional contract with ETHA Engomis in Cyprus Division 1. Brewer was named the round 5 Player of the Week after posting a double-double of 33 points and 12 rebounds. She also helped the ETHA reach the Cypriot Cup semifinal with a strong performance of 28 points and 11 rebounds.

“She is a versatile defender who will fit our intense defensive and high-possession style very well,” added Sundberg.

“Maya is a good open floor creator and will help improve our structured full-court offence.”