Luxol BC sign Malta international Nathan Xuereb

Xuereb joins after 13-year stint with Athleta

The summer transfer season always brings with it a number of announcements that spark excitement and while last season’s move for Malta captain David Bugeja to Mellieha Libertas was one of the highlights, Luxol BC’s announcement on Sunday confirming the signing of Malta international guard Nathan Xuereb is no less exciting.

Xuereb who has now become a staple in the Malta National Team under coach Alan Walls joins coach Duncan Fenech’s squad which looks to be pushing towards a better run this coming season after making the playoffs but falling at the initial round.

“Luxol Basketball Club is thrilled to announce the signing of guard Nathan Xuereb,” a club statement read.

“Nathan (Xuereb) is a national team player and needs no introduction in the local scene, having played in the senior league for a number of years now despite his young age. We welcome Nathan to our club and look forward to seeing him in purple!” 

On the other end of the transfer, the 21-year-old showed his enthusiasm to join the team.

“Thankful for this opportunity given by Luxol Basketball Club, eager to see what’s in store this season,” he said.

Xuereb now joins a new club after having been at Gzira Athleta for the past 13 years. The Malta international had announced his departure back in June. In a statement on his socials, Xuereb showed appreciation for the side he grew up at.

“During the past 13 years, Athleta has been my home, they have helped me improve and grow into the player I am today,” the statement read, “This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of all the coaches and teammates I had throughout the years with this club.

“It’s time for new opportunities, opportunities that I believe will help me become a better version of myself. To all those in the basketball community know that Athleta will always hold a special place in my heart, the highs and the lows I went through will always be part of the person I have grown into today. The emotions I experienced with this team will always be part of my memories. Thank you Gzira Athleta Basketball Club!”

Purple additions

This is Luxol’s second announcement this summer after having already confirmed three Under-18 National Team players – Adam Azzopardi, Sebastian Pace, and Isaac Azzopardi.

The three players were instrumental for the side at this year’s FIBA European Championships in spite of a disappointing finish in Azerbaijan. However, the trio, who join from Starlites FIJO, will be valid additions to the Luxol squad.

Asked about how they will fit in, coach Fenech told the Times of Malta that due to their young age, they will not be exclusively part of the senior team in order to continue their development with their own age groups.

Apart from local additions, the Times of Malta can confirm that Luxol have added US import player Tariq Woody whom they are set to announce soon, and who will replace former centre Tayler Mattos who was with the team last season.