WORCESTER Wolves’ summer rebuilding process has started after they announced the signing of 6ft 7ins Spanish forward Javier Mugica.

The 32 year-old has played most of his basketball in Spain’s highly-rated LEB Gold Division and developed impressive game statistics in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

Of last season’s Wolves squad, only guard Disraeli Lufadeju is returning to the University Arena for the 2015-16 British Basketball League campaign and Mugica is the first new name to be added to the roster.

Worcester head coach Paul James said: “I’m delighted to have signed Javi for the coming season. He can play in multiple positions and has a high basketball IQ.

“His experience of playing at a high level in Spain is going to be great for the team and I’m sure he's going to an exciting player for us.”

Mugica said: “I am excited to be playing for Worcester this season. I have learned a great deal about the club from basketball people in my country and all the information has been very positive.

“I’m looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting started.”

Last season, Mugica played for Forca Lleida as they made the play-offs in the LEB Gold Division, averaging 10 points, eight rebounds and three assists per game and securing a series of most valuable player (MVP) awards.

Wolves' managing director Mick Donovan said the University of Worcester’s partnership with Spain's University of León played a big part in helping to secure Mugica’s signing.

“We first heard about Javi during one of our trips to León and he has been highly recommended by people who know the game and who we trust,” Donovan explained.

“He has flown over twice to the United Kingdom to meet with the coach, see the facilities and meet the people within the club, which speaks volumes about his commitment.”

Dr Alejandro Vaquera, visiting academic in Worcester and director of sport at the León university, is convinced Mugica will be a success in the BBL.

He said: “Javi is a good person who will engage perfectly with the University of Worcester and Wolves community.

"As a player, he can play on both sides of the court, is a good fast break player and a threat from the three-point line.

“He can also intimidate on defence, being able to increase the defensive intensity of the team. I worked with him in the past and he is a hard worker who loves to practice every day in the gym. He will make an impact in the BBL.”

Wolves plan to make more announcements in the coming weeks.