Caledonia Gladiators can confirm the first new signing in town, Trent Buttrick from Pennsylvania, who last suited up for TFT Skopje in North Macedonia’s first league. The 6’9″ forward previously spent four of his collegiate years at Penn State in the Big Ten, before spending his super senior campaign at the University of Massachusetts, graduating in 2022.
Buttrick is a dominant forward, often seen making hugely impactful plays, showcasing his clear natural athleticism on several occasions a game. Also, the American is a solid shooter, hitting 36% of his three-pointers last campaign in North Macedonia, where he averaged 11 PPG, 6.8 RPG and 1.3 APG. His joint-career high came against Osijek, scoring 24 points in a four-point win.
TFT Skopje also competed in the Basketball Champions League qualifiers last season, the competition round in which Gladiators aim to reach by defeating Swiss outfit Fribourg Olympic. In fact, Buttrick’s team hosted the qualifying tournament featuring fellow British Basketball side, Leicester Riders, and Fribourg, Gladiators’ future opponents. Trent played alongside former London Lions centre, Chris Tawaiah.
During his time in North Macedonia, the forward picked up the league’s Defensive Player of the Year award, also receiving a spot in their all-league second team.
Trent Buttrick said: “I am super excited to have the opportunity to become a part of the Caledonia Gladiator family! I’m looking forward to playing in front of new fans and competing in the BCL for a chance for a regular season spot! I am ready to get started and build on the successes from last season. I can’t wait to get to Scotland to meet my new teammates, coaches and fans!”
Following the pick-up, Head Coach Gareth Murray added: “Trent’s successful stint in Macedonia, including winning Defensive Player of the Year, brings valuable experience to our team. As a versatile forward with a high basketball IQ, he can contribute to our success in the league and against European teams. His performance in the ABA league and BCL qualifiers demonstrates his ability to compete at a high level. With Trent on our roster, we are confident in our ability to face challenges and achieve our goals.”
Despite becoming the first fresh face in the league’s only Scottish side, Trent Buttrick joins four already confirmed re-signings suiting up for the Gladiators’ next campaign.
