Newcastle Eagles player-coach Fabulous Flournoy has been awarded the MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list for his services to basketball and to the community in the north east of England.

Flournoy, who at 43-years-old is still actively playing in the British Basketball League has turned the Eagles into a dominant force with 23 domestic titles since the play-caller took over in 2003.

The New York-born veteran, who has UK citizenship has also won 16 caps for England, and most notably scooped a bronze medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.

“On behalf of the club and everyone connected with the Eagles, I want to congratulate Fab on receiving this honour and for everything he has achieved on his journey so far,” stated Eagles managing director Paul Blake.

“Fab’s life story serves as an inspiration to us all. He has had a major impact in the north-east community, both on and off the court for many years now.

“We are all very proud of him and know he is truly deserving of this recognition.”

“Fab’s record speaks for itself in terms of delivering success,” said BBL COO Andy Webb.

“I think everyone recognises that the combination of his life experiences, personality and work ethic have turned him into a role model and put him on the path to receiving this distinguished honour.”

The Queen’s Honours list is a means of rewarding British individuals for personal bravery, achievement, or service to the United Kingdom.