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Salem’s own Grayson “The Professor” Boucher has signed with the Salem Stampede of the International Basketball League (IBL) for the upcoming season, reports InsideHoops.com.

Boucher, 21, recently returned from a gig with the And 1 tour in Brazil and will make his professional debut with the Stampede when the team opens their season with an exhibition game on March 18th in Woodburn. InsideHoops.com rates him as one of the more fun streetballers. But his "regular game" basketball ability has not yet been proven.

"Grayson brings speed, ball handling and scoring to the roster,” said Director of Basketball Operations Joe Becerra of Boucher. “He is an excellent passer and knows how to break down a defense.”

Boucher, 5’10” 150 lbs, has achieved a worldwide recognition during his time on the And 1 tour and got his nickname from New York City playground legend Duke Tango who said Boucher “was schooling people.”

Boucher earned his way on to the worldwide tour with ball skills that have become legendary. Those skills and Boucher’s desire to make his pro debut in his hometown made the relationship work and brought “The Professor” home.

“I was born and raised in Keizer and started playing organized basketball with the youth organization when I was in the first grade,” said Boucher. “My main influence to start playing was my Dad.”

Boucher, who attended McNary High School for three years and graduated from Salem Academy, said going to his Dad’s games and playing with him in their driveway sparked his interest and developed his talent.

“He can shoot the three and score in the lane,” said Becerra. “Grayson has worked hard to achieve international fame, but he still may be the hungriest guy on the team. He is constantly looking to improve and is a great teammate. He approaches the game as a true professional." Team Owner and President Anthony Veliz is excited about signing Boucher.

“Grayson is a proven,” said Veliz.  “His quickness and his open court play will take the Salem Stampede to the next level.  We are very lucky to find such a local talent."

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