Slammers study season’s shortfall

The dust might have just settled on a challenging season for the Printsync South West Slammers, but an extensive review into the club’s programs has already begun.

All men’s and women’s players from 2019 have completed player surveys, which will be complemented by an extensive coaching review process.

Slammers senior director Russell Donovan outlined that both men’s coach John Triscari and women’s coach Nathan Grover have one year left on their respective contracts, however, all elements of the season would be considered in order to improve the club’s fortunes in 2020.

“We will have a thorough review of this year,” he said.

“So changes to all aspects of the program need to be considered, however, it’s expected at this stage that both coaches will be at the helm for next year’s season.”

The Slammers are keen to lock down their imports by December, with both programs on the hunt for the pieces which could complete their push for an SBL finals appearance. Donovan said that talks would continue with 2019 women’s imports Makailah Dyer and Brittni Montgomery, with the Slammers keen to retain them for next season.

Things are a little different with the men’s program, with Tyler Livingston highly unlikely to return and Terrell Carter’s status unclear, meaning the Slammers would need more size on the floor.

“This conversation will be discussed intently at the review and as the list takes shape for 2020,” Donovan said.

“I think John has made it clear we need size, but it also depends on whether Michael Lay will suit up again next season.

“Lay’s status will be confirmed as soon as possible as this will affect whether John will require a quality point guard or another prolific scoring option.”

Donovan added that the club would be open to discussion with fomer-Slammers Clive Weeden and Trent Worthington returning if they were able to commit, along with club legend James Fitch, who has expressed a desire to help the team improve.

“As senior director, I will be liaising with the SBL committee and Basketball South West board to ensure that we raise the bar for next season in many areas,” he said. “Starting with the club doing a better job in supporting our senior athletes in preparing for the 2020 season.

“From this, a higher level of commitment from the playing and coaching groups will also come in order to be more professional on and off the court.

“And ultimately we’d have both programs make the playoffs in 2020. There’s lots to do, but we are excited by the challenge ahead.”