The Knights began  the week by confirming the signing of 6'7" forward Nikola Urli. After 4 years at  Hawai'i Pacific University in NCAA Division 2, he will join Team Newcastle for their upcoming BUCS Northern Premier season. He will also be linking up with his brother Fran for this season's NBL Division 1 campaign.

Nikola was part of the Sharks during their  2016-17  PacWest Championship victory.  He appeared in a total of 21 games, averaging 3.3 points and 1.8 rebounds over 8.6 minutes. His efficiency in particular stood out over the season, shooting 45.3% from the field and 90% from the free throw line.  A highlight from his time there was a 10 point, 1 rebound outing  against Hawai'i Hilo where he finished 100% from the field.

He is also a player with international experience,  having won the 2010 FIBA U16  European Championship with Croatia.

Team Newcastle have moved to confirm their second new signing ahead  of the  season;  Onyekachi Nzerem,  formerly of New York Tech in NCAA Division II.

The adaptable  6'6'' Guard/ Forward will be representing the club in both BUCS and NBL leagues where his ability to score at  all three levels should add further potency to Newcastle's offense.  In his  last season in the NCAA, he averaged  9 points and 4 rebounds over 20 games as a starter, with strong efficiency both from the field and beyond the 3-point line.

Known as Kachi, he has also proven himself to be a tough defender and should fit well with the current group of players at the club. In addition to playing, he will be studying for a Master's degree in E-business marketing.