Star Slammer at crossroads

Just days after scoring 60 points against the Goldfields Giants, Printsync South West Slammers import Tre Nichols is back home in the United States, preparing for the next stage of his career.

Nichols starred for the Slammers in 2016, finishing as the State Basketball League’s leading scorer, averaging more than 31 points a game.

But a broken nose cost Nichols the chance to strut his stuff in front of National Basketball League scouts earlier this year and he is looking to Europe for the next step to advance his career.

Three clubs in Germany are possible homes for the high-scoring guard.

“I have a couple of options,” he said.

“There are three different teams in Germany going through the same process.

“This is part of getting my front foot in the door to the European League.”

The 26-year-old believes whatever step he takes next in his professional basketball career, he is ready.

“I get to go over there (Germany) in great shape,” he said.

“If the opportunity presents itself, then I have to make sure I am ready both mentally and physically.”

Nichols admits 2016 was a frustrating year, with the Slammers going from championship contenders to winning just eight games.

“I am not content with losing, but I was proud of some of the young guys this year,” he said.

“We are just taking this season with a grain of salt.”

Nichols was uncertain if he would return to the Slammers for a third-straight season.

“I have just got to take it one day at a time and see what happens,” he said.

“But there is every possibility.”