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Heat announce final line up

30 September 2011

Coach Creon Raftopoulos has confirmed his final team selection by signing two new players and three returning players for the 2011/2012 season. Albert Margai, Xavier Lutaaya, Dean Williams, Oskar Ociepa and Richard Green are all set to join the Heat, which plays its first games of the season this weekend.

The new additions to the team are Albert Magai, former point guard at Leeds Metropolitan University, EBL Division One and Xavier Lutaaya, who joins Guildford Heat from BBL team, London Capitals.

The re-signing of Dean Williams, Oskar Ociepa and Richard Green will all be popular decisions with the fans. Oskar, who is currently recovering from a knee injury, is not likely to join the team until he returns to full fitness in November.
Coach Creon commented. "We have a strong blend of skills within the Heat for the 2011/2012 season and are looking forward to our first games this weekend.

“Albert was one of the best defenders in EBL Division One and I know he will make a valuable contribution to the team, both on the defensive and offensive end of the floor. He has the potential to be a starter in our league and I’m sure he will develop into a fan favourite.

”Xavier will bring a lot of energy to the team. He has great rebounding ability and will provide strong back up at the forward positions. “It was an easy decision to re-sign Dean as he is the ultimate, versatile team player. He played a pivotal role in many games last season and contributed at the point guard position when we lost our point guard to injury.

“Although Oskar can be a Jekyll and Hyde character when it comes to games and practise, I'm hoping that this year he will be able to show the fans his talent, energy and ability which we regularly see at our training sessions.
“And finally, Richard returns for his second year with the Heat. He has worked hard over the summer and I am hoping that he can apply his hard work in a game situation.”
Guildford Heat is playing its first game of the season against Worcester Wolves on Saturday 1 October. For a seat on the team coach, which leaves Surrey Sports Park at 2.45 prompt, contact Peter_B@pkb.co.uk. Places are £15 each, with a free ticket to the game – and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
Guildford Heat’s first BBL home game of the season is a BBL Trophy game against Plymouth Raiders on Sunday 2 October at 3pm at Surrey Sports Park. For ticket details or further information, visit www.guildfordheat.com