File photo – Thomas Nelson in action for CR last winter.

By Ray Hamill — Former Arcata High and College of the Redwoods standout Thomas Nelson debuted with Flagler College this week, as he embarks on the next chapter in what has been a very successful basketball career thus far.

Nelson joined the Division-II Saints after a memorable campaign with the Corsairs last winter, with the Florida program tipping off the 2020/21season on Wednesday.

Nelson played limited minutes in the opening two games, both losses, as he settles into a new environment and a senior-heavy team.

In an online season preview, Saints head coach Chad Warner said he expects heavy contributions from several newcomers, including Nelson, adding that they have been getting “better every day.”

“We’re excited to see how we do,” said Warner.

The Saints’ early schedule features several games against D-I schools, including an exhibition game against Furman in Greenville, South Carolina, on Dec. 12, a matchup that will be broadcast live on ESPN Plus (4 p.m.).

Nelson has won at every stop on his basketball journey, playing on championship teams at Arcata, Santa Rosa JC and CR.

Last season, he was named MVP of the Golden Valley Conference and first-team all-state, one of just 10 community college players in NorCal to earn the honor.

He averaged 20.5 points and 7.8 rebounds a game at CR.