Coach has a lot to look forward to

In the lead up to this weekend’s 2019 SBL Pre-Season Blitz, Printsync South West Slammers men’s coach John Triscari has several things pleasing him.

Aside from recently appointed captain/assistant coach Michael Lay going above and beyond to help his teammates, the injection of American import Tyler Livingston and younger players into the rotation have added new dimensions to the Slammers’ game plan.

“Tyler was a really good choice,” Triscari said.

“He is a really amenable guy – softly spoken, but works really hard on the court.

“He is going to fit in really well.”

The annual pre-season tournament gives all clubs an opportunity to blood youngsters and give them valuable minutes ahead of the arduous regular season campaign.

Triscari confirmed some of the young Slammers talent on the floor this weekend could win themselves a starting five spot.

“Brody England will be pushing for a starting spot along with Lucas Goff,” he said. “I’m just amazed at the work rate. The more I chuck at them, the more they can take.

“You can’t ask more for than that.

“On top of that, I have four guys who travel three times a week from Perth – at no payment – just to play with the Slammers.”

This weekend will mark another opportunity for veteran Lay to showcase the full range of his talents, with Triscari humbled by the skipper’s willingness to conduct extra early morning skill sessions with his teammates when he is in Bunbury.

“His leadership skills are exceptional,” he said.

“The guidance he gives the younger players is exactly what I need from him. I have a really high opinion of Michael.”

Pre-Season Blitz fixtures

(Warwick Stadium)

Saturday, March 2 - 12pm Slammers v Joondalup Wolves, 3pm Slammers v Willetton Tigers. Sunday, March 3 - 1.45pm Slammers v Perth Redbacks