Rob Paternostro has bolstered Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders' inside presence with the signing of 6ft 10in centre Andrew Bennett.

The 24-year-old from Coventry returns to the Midlands having spent the last six years in America.

Coach Paternostro said: "Andrew is very strong and athletic and has shown the ability to be effective in the paint on both ends of the floor.

"When looking at his college career, it is a credit to him that he has got better every year."

Bennett has just left North Georgia University, where he averaged 10 points and six rebounds per game for the Saints.

"Andrew has a range of skills and a ton of potential," said Paternostro. "I am looking forward to helping him develop. It's great for our club and our league to have an English player and potential GB player for 2012 like Andrew."

Riders host to their pre-season tournament this weekend, with Derby Trailblazers, Milton Keynes Lions and the USA Select Touring team all taking part at John Sandford Sports Centre.

It starts tomorrow with the USA v Derby (5.30), followed by Riders v USA (7.45). On Saturday there is an under-18 tournament between 1-4pm, followed by Milton Keynes v USA (5.15) and Riders v Derby (7.30).