Team 2010-11: Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga)Career: Pyrybasket (Finland-Korisliiga, 1997-99), Valparaiso (USA-NCAA, 1999-2003), Aris Thessaloniki (Greece-ESAKE, 2003-04), Ionikis NF Athens (Greece-ESAKE, 2004-05), BCM Gravelines Dunkerque (France-ProA, 2005), Pepsi Caserta (Italy-Lega, 2005-06), CEZ Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL, 2006-07), Sassari (Italy-Lega Due, 2007-08), Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga, 2008-09), Sant Josep Girona (Spain-LEB1, 2009-10), Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga, 2010-11)
Antti Nikkila is another veteran center who continues to play a great role for the National Team having played for almost a decade for his country. Having graduated from Valparaiso, an NCAA college which has welcomed several Finnish players, Nikkila played in the Greek and French leagues at a high standard although since then has mainly played in lower leagues. A great defensive player, Nikkila can do a good job containing opposing centers when called upon and will probably be utilised as a back-up coming off the bench. Last season he helped his club team Pyrinto Tampere to a fantastic league and Championship double., With his size he can create space on offence for the smaller players to drive to the rim, something that the Finnish back-court really appreciates. |