James Bell now with Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul

James Bell (197 cm, Villanova ’14) agreed to move to the Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) roster. The swingman heads to the Turkish league for the first time in his blossoming career. Last season, Bell spent his only season with Hapoel Unet Halon (Israel-Winner League). His game showed that he belongs as he recorded big scoring and rebounding numbers. In 37 games in the Israeli league, he managed to record 14.9 ppg with 5.1 rpg while seeing 32.1 mpg of action. His big year led the league to name him to the All-Israeli first team, especially after they made a deep run to the semifinals in the playoffs.

Bell had a great year but now his game will be put to another test. Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul will bring him in with hopes of similar numbers. They will need him in order for the team to compete for a title.The Turkish team was right in the middle of the hunt last season as they finished in fourth with a 23-7 record. Bringing in the young swingman will surely add energy to the Istanbul squad as well as a player who can shoot efficiently. His three point shot went in at a rate of 38 percent a season ago. His quality shooting could get even better since he is only 25-years-old. Expect good things from Bell next season in Turkey.