Blast from the past to lift young Slammers

Resurrected Collie Crane Hire South West Slammers’ legend Lee Smith says his shock comeback is the real deal, this week pledging to help the club for ‘‘as long as it takes’’.

Picture: Lee Smith

Smith, 35, officially retired eight years ago but made a surprise return to the court on Saturday night when he suited up for the Slammers in their 33-point loss to Perth.

The 1999 SBL All-Star squad member has been training with the club for several weeks and said the focus of his return would be helping develop young players.

Smith will inject the experience of his 205 SBL appearances and four championships into the South West side’s roster, which includes nine players under the age of 20.

The blast from the past could intensify tomorrow night—coach Greg Worthington this week flagged Slammers’ games record holder and former captain Aaron Edwards as a possible inclusion for the club’s clash against Cockburn in Perth.

Smith proved he was still fit enough to play in the league in an impressive 31-minute stay on the court at the weekend, in which he scored six points and brought down seven rebounds.

Since calling time on his career in 2004 Smith has played socially for local teams, but rekindled his love for the sport in the past two years after taking part in an international tournament in Asia with Edwards.

‘‘I guess my biggest problem is being the competitor I am, I always aspire to play at the highest level I can possibly play at,’’ Smith said.

‘‘Having played those international tournaments in the last two years, it makes you realise — if you can continue to be competitive at the highest level, then why would you not do that for as long as you possibly can?’’

Smith said he was aiming to set the standard in the coming weeks and challenge the club’s younger brigade.

‘‘I don’t want to take people’s court time. I just want to help the club and the young players in general,’’ he said.

‘‘I had some good role models when I was their age and it definitely helps.

‘‘I addressed the guys after the game on Saturday night, and basically told them that I was there to challenge them.

‘‘When they challenge me and I’m not needed on the court at all, then my job is done.’’

The Slammers will clash with Cockburn at Wally Hagan Basketball Stadium tomorrow before hosting Kalamunda Eastern Suns at the Eaton Recreation Centre on Saturday.