Canadian basketball star chooses Teesside University for Computer Studies degree course

A teenage Canadian basketball star is planning to enrol at Teesside University in September.

Asad Maie, a highly-promising 19-year-old Alberta region shooting guard (SG), visited the University’s Middlesbrough Campus and was impressed with both the facilities and the employment opportunities in the Tees Valley.

A collaboration between James Thomson of Teesside Lions Basketball Club and Aaron Johnson, Club President of Saladin Basketball Prep Academy in Edmonton, Canada has created a pathway for Canadian players to study at Teesside University.

Asad plans to combine his undergraduate computer science studies with his passion for sport by playing for Teesside Lions in National Basketball League Division 2.

Asad Maie said: ‘When I researched into Teesside University, I was hooked straight away. The campus is amazing. When I looked at the courses, I discovered the computer science courses and they really interested me.

‘I am aware the area is amazing for these courses and employment opportunities, especially in the digital and programming sector.

‘I am looking forward to representing Teesside University and Teesside Lions.’

James Thomson, who also directs the basketball programme at Teesside University said: ‘Asad will be one of the flag-bearers for our University basketball programme.

‘He is the first player we have attracted from overseas with the specific intention of strengthening the team, and the hope is that he will be the spark that encourages others to follow.

‘We already have interest from another three high-level players, and this represents the beginning for what I hope will be something special.’

The basketball programme at the University is a sports club that anyone can join, regardless of ability.

---