Eagles Flournoy evaluates Giants and Royals ahead of opening tip

Newcastle Eagles coach, Fab Flournoy, has seen many teams enter the BBL over his 16 year career. And with the introduction of the East London Royals and Manchester Giants into the league ahead of the 2012/13 season, UKAmericansportsfans.com thought it wise to sit down with the veteran player/coach and take note of what he expects to see from the two clubs in their opening seasons.

“London – give them some time: they’re going to be young and talented with lots of players,” advised 38year old Flournoy.

“The one thing London will have is the capital city and the catchment for potential players and players in that area and developing players is going to be huge and phenomenal. I think that’s going to be their x-factor.”

Turning his attentions to the Giants, Flournoy spoke with enthusiasm when discussing the foundations the club is built upon and had nothing but glowing praise for Head Coach Jeff Jones.

“Manchester – the same as London – is another catchment (area),” said Flournoy. “They have a tradition of developing players which is key. You have the living legend, Jeff Jones, who is going to be a part of it. “He’s such a huge tool and a huge part of the development of basketball in Manchester. He had his hand in developing and working with all those players. He’s pretty much like a father figure to a lot of basketball players in Manchester. He knows his X’s and O’s.

“I give Jeff Jones about a two to three year period before they’re seriously challenging.”

And the Royals?

“I expect London to probably be the same as Durham (Wildcats). I believe that they will be going through a learning curve. It’s a huge learning curve for them.”