Darren Phillip's (South Shore HS/Brooklyn, N.Y.) basketball career will continue, as he signed a two-year contract with Malaga, a top-tier European team. He became the first Division I player to sign with a Spanish team for the upcoming campaign.

Phillip made the choice over offers from teams in both Italy and Greece. The center, who was born in London, has the added advantage of signing as a European player. Besides the signing, Phillip still has several options in this country.

He will have the opportunity to play in the National Rookie League as a member of the Gotham City Knights or the United States Basketball League with the Brooklyn Kings. Both leagues, begin competition in June and run through August. If he chooses to play in either league, it still gives the center a few weeks to relax before leaving for Spain in September.

"This is the right situation for me," Phillip said. "Malaga is a top-tier team with a great tradition. I will be able to join a team without the pressure of having to be a scorer, rebounder and everything else. I am very excited about this opportunity."

Phillip led all divisions with a 14.0 rebounding average this year, a nice compliment to his 16.0 scoring average. He tallied a nation-leading 24 double-doubles during the year, including 19 straight to end the season. Phillip tallied a conference-record 25 rebounds in the team's win over Marist on January 5.

This Sunday, Phillip will receive his bachelor's degree in communications at the University's commencement.

Posted On: 05-20-2000 09:05 AM

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