The Niagara College men's basketball program is proud to announce the addition of St. Catharines native Rahim Bardi. Bardi is an elite local talent that joins the Knights out of Governor Simcoe Secondary School and the Niagara North AAU program.

Standing at six-foot-four, Bardi brings the Knights an elite level of length, athleticism, and versatility. His ball handling, shooting ability, and overall skill set will make him a significant mismatch for most OCAA defenders at both the guard and forward positions.

"Rahim is one of the highest level of recruits to come out of the Niagara Region in a while" said Niagara Knights men's basketball head coach Mike Hurley. "We are extremely excited to welcome him to our program. His skill and athleticism will make him a big part of our team moving forward."

Bardi brings the Knights an accomplished basketball resume that includes two Niagara Region first team all-star selections (2016 and 2017), two Governor Simcoe boy's basketball MVP awards (2016 and 2017), and a slew of invitational tournament MVP honours.

"I chose Niagara College because I am able to stay local and play in front of my family and friends, while pursuing my career of becoming a physio-therapist," said Bardi during a scholarship and letter of intent signing event at Niagara College's Welland campus athletic centre. "Niagara also has a similar approach and culture to Governor Simcoe basketball with a focus on hard work and team play. The Knights coaching staff really made me feel welcome, and I'm looking forward to joining the team."

Bardi will enroll in the Niagara College fitness and health promotion program beginning in September. He joins fellow local standout Braidon Moore (Welland) as the Knights first two recruit announcements this off-season.

"Braidon and Rahim are the two best graduating players in the area" added Hurley. "Both of these guys are terrific young men, and have the potential to make significant impacts at the post-secondary level."

The Knights will also return the bulk of their roster for the upcoming 2018-19 season. Niagara finished last season in fourth place in the ultra competitive OCAA West Division, and were eliminated in the OCAA Championship quarterfinals by the eventual CCAA national Champion Seneca Sting.

"My goal on the court is to immediately contribute to the success of the Knights basketball program. I want to take my game to the next level and help make Niagara College the best it can be" added Bardi.