Worthing Thunder have gone Bulgarian for their third overseas signing of the summer.

Power forward Petroslav Zafirov, 27, is heading west for Thunder’s second season in the BBL.

The 6ft 8in former American college player has featured for Bulgaria’s top two clubs Lukoil Academic and Levski Sofia, both of whom are regulars in European competition.

He finished last season at lowly Sliven, averaging 13 points and six rebounds per game.

Zafirov’s four years at college in the States included a season with division one outfit Tennessee State.

Popularly known as Pepe, he played for Bulgaria under-20s and is known to have sound basic skills and a smooth jump shot, including from three-point range.

He said: “I like the UK very much and I think that the BBL is a great spot for developing my basketball career and experience so I’m very excited for the near future.”

Zafirov joins fellow BBL rookies Kadiri Richard and Reggie Bratton in Thunder’s prospective starting five for the new season.

Coach Dave Titmuss hopes to have his full squad in place in plenty of time for the pre-season Thunder Cup at Worthing on Saturday, September 19.

Leopards, Irish side Killester and Guildford Heat are also on board for the event which tips off at 2pm.