Surrey Heat Resign Trio
07 September 2012
Coach Creon Raftopolous has been working hard in the run up to the new Surrey Heat season and is pleased to have resigned three key squad members.
Frank Holmes
This will be the fourth BBL season for the 6’ 9 American forward and his second season with the Heat. With experience from both Milton Keynes Lions and Leicester Riders as well as internationally from playing in the USA and Czech Republic, Holmes is a highly respected member of the team.
Guildford Heat’s head coach, Creon Raftopoulos commented: “Frank brings a wealth of experience to the Heat, and to have Frank on board will make us a stronger and better club.
“Last season he joined us part way through and consistently showed us his passion and energy. He’s a great team player, with a strong ability to play defence and rebound the ball.”
Holmes commented: “I am very happy to be coming back to a great community and organisation, with such supportive fans. See you guys soon – and Go Heat!”
Albert Margai
Coach Creon’s second signing isthe return of point-guard Albert Margai. Albert, who joined the Heat last season from the EBL, impressed both Coach Creon and the Heat fans with his consistently strong performances.
Creon Coach praised the 6’0″ point-guard: “Albert made the adjustment to the BBL with great maturity. I have selected him for the team for the forthcoming season as he has already demonstrated that he is a strong point guard who we can rely on to push the ball up the floor and help us to play at the high tempo we need. He is also a great defender, strong enough to defend positions one to three.
“Point guards new to the BBL tend to improve in their second season, having learned the style of play needed for winning performances in this league. I will be giving Albert a bigger role this season and am sure he will be an asset to the team.”
Albert himself was delighted to be back: “I am very excited to be playing for the Heat again and am looking forward to building on the positives from last season and making a good run for some silverware.”
Martelle McLemore
The 6ft 5in American guard/forward has been a huge hit with the fans for the last two seasons and will be a popular signing for the club.
Creon Raftopoulos commented, “Since joining the Heat, Martelle has been consistent, averaging 17 points a game. He is a strong player, who does a lot of little things which don’t show up on the stat sheet. His strength on defence will be important and he has proved that he is capable of defending the best guards on the opposing teams.
“Although I will be bringing a number of new players into the club this season, I also wanted some continuity. I know I can rely on Martelle as he is very committed to the Heat. He did a great job last season as a coach and role model, particularly with the local Prevent & Deter Scheme. Our community programmes are a big focus for Surrey Heat – and Martelle will be an asset to the club, both on and off the court.”
Martelle McLemore added, “I am really looking forward to returning to Surrey Heat, and will give my all to ensure we have a successful season in front of our great fans."
Surrey Heat’s first home game is against Mersey Tigers on Saturday 22 September at 7.00pm at Surrey Sports Park. For further information or to buy tickets, visit www.surreyheat.com or telephone Surrey Sports Park on 01483 689111.
