It will be first European experience for young player. Washington, Illinois, native played basketball only in his country before. Alec graduated from Valparaiso University, where he was honored with numerous individual awards, including Third-team All-American selection. He was one of two players in Division I games to record an average of 20 points and 10 rebounds that season (23.0 + 10.1). The injury did not allow Peters to participate in the playoffs and affected his chances to be selected high in the 2017 NBA draft where he went to the Phoenix Suns as 54th pick. The scouts noted his outside shooting skills, pick-n-pop plays, high basketball IQ, court vision, hard work and good positioning on defensive end.
Alec spent last year between Phoenix and Northern Arizona. He played 35 games for the G-League team averaging 17.6 points (3.7 threes, 41% of outside shots made), 7.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 0.6 steals in 34.0 minutes. Peters also appeared in 20 NBA games averaging 4.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 0.6 assists in 11.3 minutes. The Army Men newcomer shined in away game at Dallas in April, he recorded a career-high 36 points (including a franchise record-high 8 three-pointers for rookies) and a season-high 9 rebounds. He was the only player besides MVP James Harden that season to record at least 35 points with 8 three-pointers made and 7 rebounds in a single game.
Dimitris Itoudis, CSKA head coach:
We have talked to Alec several times. Besides the fact that he could receive NBA offers he was convinced and decided to make this step in his career and come to our team. I believe he will help us with his extremely good long range shooting, post game, court vision, selfishness, understanding of team defense and other skills. As a young player he obviously has huge space to develop. We, the coaches and the players, are looking forward to help Peters have quick adjustment to European basketball and CSKA organization. I believe Alec will become a good addition to our team. His wish and talent will help not only his development but our team growth as well.
Alec Peters, CSKA forward:
I could not be more excited to join such a prestigious and well-known organization as CSKA Moscow. I appreciate the belief of coaching staff and management, who know my set of skills and think that my style of playing will fit the team. I know that I come to the first-class organization and look forward to help the team win the EuroLeague title.
