THE Mount Gambier Pioneers this week announced their latest signing, with former Hobart Charger and AIS graduate Lewis Thomas on board for the 2018 South East Australian Basketball League season.
Standing at six-foot-eight in the old scale, Thomas averaged 10 points and 7.5 rebounds per game for the Chargers last season, shooting at 48pc from the field and 36pc from three-point territory.
Last time Thomas visited the Icehouse he scored 18 points and grabbed 16 rebounds, showing his strength around the basket.
Thomas comes with not only Australian Institute of Sport experience, but college time in the United States and the British Basketball League system.
Thomas said he was excited about the opportunity to play for such a strong club.
“We had two tough games against them last season and I really like the way they play, how coach (Richard) Hill runs things and how everyone gets involved,” he said.
“I just want to be part of a program like that.”
Thomas said the opportunities offered with the Pioneers and the culture in the club contributed to his decision to play in Mount Gambier.
He said he hoped to bring more of that selfless attitude to the team.
“I just hope to bring the same sort of culture they have instilled in the club, be there for my team mates and look to win games,” he said.
“In basketball teamwork wins games and the way the Pioneers play, they have shown that.
“I want to bring a consistent effort and energy then everything else will take care of itself individually.
“I just want to win, to go there and win a championship.
“I’m sure that’s what Mount Gambier expects from the club.”
But it was also the home crowd that he was keen to be on the other side of next season.
“It is a really loud environment in the Icehouse,” Thomas said.
“I really enjoyed it and as a home team to have the crowd behind you, you feed off that.
“If you are against it you can struggle, so I am excited to have the fans behind me and I’m looking forward to getting on the court.”
Thomas said he was keen to tackle the opposition next season, with the Pioneers sure to face tough competition as the reigning champions, especially at the Icehouse.
“Everyone wants to go to Mount Gambier and beat them at home,” he said.
“I do not think they have lost at home for the past two years, so it is about defending our home court.
“Plus it is always good to have a target on your back – you know you have to live up to the reputation.”
Hill said he was equally excited about having Thomas on the roster as the club prepares to defend its national championship.
“Thomas’s commitment to the Pioneers is very important as we make some major adjustments to our team for the first time in six seasons,” he said.
“His size, versatility and unselfishness is a great fit for us and he will slot into our system perfectly.”
The Pioneers will make further announcements in the coming weeks regarding the 2018 roster.
