London, Ontario -- The London Lightning, who are 4-1 and sit atop the standings of the National Basketball League of Canada, have announced two roster moves ahead of this Thursday's game against the Quebec Kebs at 7pm in the John Labatt Centre.

London has made a trade with the Halifax Rainmen. They send Tyrone Levett to the Rainmen in exchange for former NBA player Rodney Buford. At 6'5", Buford has the experience and size to London's backcourt. He began his pro career in 1999 as a NBA draft pick of the Miami Heat. He has played in the NBA, Europe, and most recently, in the NBL Canada. He is active for Thursday's game. Buford contributed 15 points for the Rainmen in the Lightning regular sea- son home opener and has averaged 12 points and 6 rebounds in 5 games with Halifax this season.

As promised by Coach Michael Ray Richardson, London has added another big man to the roster in Shamari Spears. Spears is 6'6", 250 pounds with a 7'1" wingspan. His physical, aggressive style should bolster London's backcourt immensely. Spears will be active for Thursday’s game vs. the Quebec Kebs.

As a result of the roster moves, the Lightning have released Tyler Bullock.

The next home game for the Lightning takes place this Thursday against the Quebec Kebs at 7:00pm.

Single tickets and flex packs are now available at The John Labatt Centre box office 1-866-455-2849, www.johnlabattcentre.com or www.lightningbasketball.ca.

The London Lightning are part of the National Basketball League of Canada.

Founded in 2011, the National Basketball League of Canada is the country's only professional basketball league. NBL Canada is committed to developing the next generation of Canadian athletes and raising the excitement and awareness for basketball throughout the country. Seven teams will play in the inaugural 2011-2012 season and the league is poised for continued expansion across Canada. NBL Canada is headquartered in Toronto.