DURHAM, N.C. – Former North Carolina Central University point guard Justin Leemow will continue his professional career in Canada as he was drafted by the Summerside Storm in the third round of the National Basketball League of Canada on Monday.

“It means a lot to me,” said Leemow.  “I grew up always dreaming about playing professional sports so I could take care of my family, and basketball is a game that I truly love.  So for me to get selected is a major blessing.”

The Brooklyn, N.Y., product spent the 2012-13 season playing with the North Dallas Vandals of the ABA (American Basketball Association) where he averaged 17.7 points a contest, while dishing out 7.7 assists per game, helping the Vandals advance to the ABA Championship Game before falling to the Jacksonville Giants.  Leemow recorded a double-double scoring a season-high 36 points and dishing out 14 assists in a 141-79 win over the Shizouka Gymrats, where he went 6-for-14 from three-point range.

“After the trials and tribulations that he has endured,” said NCCU men’s basketball coach LeVelle Moton, “Justin has fought his way back to achieve his dream of playing professional basketball.  This goes to show how life is not about how you act when things are going well, it’s about how you react when things aren’t.  I’m so proud of him and wish him nothing but the best as he continues.”

Leemow suited up for the maroon and gray for 46 games, making 36 starts from 2010-2012.  On Nov. 27, 2010 he recorded his lone double-double for the Eagles with 19 points and 10 assists in a 96-81 victory over Allen University.

The Summerside Storm are located in the province of Prince Edward Island in Canada, finishing the 2012-13 season 30-19 overall, winning the Atlantic Division title, but falling in the Championship Series to the London Lightning three games to one.

“I’m really excited about being drafted by this team,” said Leemow.  “This is a great organization, great franchise with a great coaching staff.  I just want to go in there and do whatever it takes to get on the floor and continue my career.”