David Pekarek Signed by Stingers

EDMONTON, AB- The Edmonton Stingers of the CEBL have announced the signing of forward David Pekarek. The most recent addition to the two-time defending champ played four years at Fordham University before spending the last three seasons in the Czech Republic Mattoni NBL, the nation’s top league. Most recently, he played for BK JIP Pardubice where he averaged 12.9 points and 5.7 rebounds in 31 games.

A Czech native, Pekarek began his career at Fordham in 2015, suiting up for 30 games for the Rams earning 11 starts. He would manage 5.1 points and 2.0 rebounds per game as a freshman, putting up an eventual career best 19 points on December 10th against Saint Bonaventure, fueled by four three-pointers. His sophomore season was cut short due to injury, as he finished the season with an average of 3.5 points and 1.3 rebounds in 15 games.

Pekarek returned for his junior year and put up a career best 5.2 points per game to complement 3.2 boards a night across 27 games. In a regular season matchup against Saint Bonaventure, he posted his long career double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. In his senior year, Pekarek provided the Rams with consistent three-point shooting, connecting on 30.0% of his attempts. His averages dipped to 3.6 points per game, and he would depart near the end of the season back to the Czech Republic in March to pursue professional opportunities.

Upon his return, Pekarek shined, scoring 11.8 points and 5.6 rebounds in 17 games for Kralovsti Sokoli. The 6’9 forward shot 35.1% from the three, and despite the team’s 3-14 record proved his ability as a pro. He joined Olomoucko in the 2020-21 season, providing his club with 15.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. He put up 30 points twice that season to set a career best. Pekarek was moved to GEOSAN Kolin for the final five games of the season, and helped the team earn a semi-final appearance in the NBL. 

Last season, Pekarek suited up for  BK JIP Pardubice where he averaged 12.9 points and 5.7 rebounds in 31 games. He knocked down an impreesive 37.3% of his threes and played consistent defense as a third year pro. 

Pekarek brings a diverse offensive skillset to the Stingers which will complement nicely with the team-oriented offense that the Stingers employ. With Marlon Johnson Jr. absent for the season tip-off due to his season in Taiwan, expect Pekarek to see action in the power forward role until the All-CEBL Johnson Jr. returns.

The Stingers season will begin on May 27th as they take on the Niagara River Lions at the Edmonton EXPO Centre. The home opener will include live halftime performances, fan giveaways, contests, and a special guest autograph signing. Fans can reserve their ticket by heading to www.thestingers.ca/tickets or by calling the Stingers head office at 905-577-3440. Single game, package, and season tickets are still available for the entire Stingers season. Head to www.thestingers.ca to learn more.