Riders dedicate game to former star

Leicester are dedicating their final home league game of 2011 to former player Jason Johnson, who was seriously injured in a car crash earlier this year.

Johnson, who played for the Riders in the 2009/10 season, moved to play for Ironi Nahariya in Israel the following year, but was involved in a serious car accident in February, suffering a broken nose, jaw and head injuries.

He remains in the Rambam Hospital in Haifa, Israel where he is undergoing rehabilitation, and the Riders are holding collection at the game against Durham to raise money to assist with his medical related expenses.

Riders Head Coach Rob Paternostro told the club’s official website: “Jason was one of the best in his position and an outstanding guy. Our hearts went out to him and his family when we heard of his tragedy. We can only hope he gets back his health and fitness. It would be great any support we can provide to him and his family.”

Johnson joined the Riders in September 2009 and had a stunning season leading the BBL in rebounds and was in the top 10 for scoring. He had 25 double-double games (in rebounds and points), helping Riders to a BBL Championship playoff position.

Current Riders star Cameron Rundles tweeted: “My prayers go out to Jason Johnson and his family! A guy that I personally never got a chance to meet, but is spoken highly about around here.”