Valdes Lands With Reds

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB Reds men’s basketball team is adding guard Derian Valdes ahead of the 2019-20 Atlantic University Sport season.

The 22-year-old has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent, and has joined the Reds.

Valdes is a 6’5” guard from Calgary, who grew up playing basketball with the Reds' Nolan Willett.

He spent last season at Okanagan College, in British Columbia. Prior to that, Valdes attended Red Deer College, in Alberta, where he averaged 9.3 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, and shot 78.4% from the free throw line.

“Derian brings the ability to play and guard multiple positions at a high level,” said Reds head coach Brent Baker. “At 6’5”, his size, strength and ability to shoot from range will be a great addition to our lineup.”

Valdes is a graduate of Calgary’s Sir Winston Churchill High School, and played in the Calgary Youth Development Centre’s basketball program as well.

“I like the style and level of play here, and the plethora of talent on the team,” said Valdes. “I bring a positive attitude and take pride in being a good teammate. I’ll bring scoring ability and, I think, I’ll fit in great with the fast pace of play here.”

Valdes is hoping to make an impact early in the coming season, and would like to help the Reds to an AUS championship.

Valdes will pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree while attending UNB.