James Hamilton returns to Cheshire Jets as player/coach
Cheshire Jets are pleased to announce the appointment of James Hamilton as new player-coach.
Hamilton, who has come out of a two-year retirement from playing basketball, is already well-known to Cheshire Jets supporters, as the team’s longest serving player on 258 games, and the wider British basketball scene, having had a playing career spanning almost twenty years, predominantly within the BBL.
This is his first foray into coaching at a professional level, but he comes with a wealth of knowledge, passion, and desire to see Cheshire Jets succeed on court.
Speaking of his appointment, Hamilton said: “I have played basketball since I was a very young boy. I’ve decided to come back to playing, and also be involved in a coaching role, because of my love for the game. If I didn’t, it would be disrespecting, to an extent, of all of that time.
“I see myself somewhat as a player’s coach, and I hope that with my experience and basketball mind, I can help develop a team both on and off the court, give them the tools to survive, and also progress for the future of the Cheshire Jets.
“The situation that we are in, as a team, is a difficult one, given the circumstances that have been widely reported. Since taking up the position, I was given the task of recruiting players in less than a week. In doing so, I haven’t had much sleep, but I’ve spoken with coaches and players everywhere, here and abroad, pulling in every favour, to find the very best I can.
“The main point I want to make clear is that I have looked for men, not boys, to be part of my team; players who can play together win or lose, and see this as an opportunity, which is what I’ve told them this will be.
“For the supporters, who we are doing this for most of all, all we can ask of is for patience. For many of these guys, it will be their first time playing out of college, admittedly not for a lot of money, but it is a good chance for them and need all the support that can be given; from us as a team and fans as well.
“However, we will play to win every game, every competition we can, fight to the end and give 100%.”
