Teenage guard Gachette jumps at chance to return to Pirates (From Echo)

Teenage guard Gachette jumps at chance to return to Pirates

1:28pm Thursday 1st September 2011 in Basketball By Chris Phillips

ZACH Gachette has confirmed he will be returning to the Essex Pirates this season.

The 19-year-old starting guard broke through for the Southend-based British Basketball League side last season.

And he now cannot wait to get back on court.

“I’m in a great position because I’m coming back to a place where I know I’m going to have the chance to play quality minutes which is rare for this league,” said Gachette, who emerged through Pirates AASE system.

“As well as that I’ve got my scholarship at the University of East London for my degree course also provided by the Pirates and there’s also no better time to be living and playing in this part of the world with the Olympics just round the corner.”

Gachette is the first player to commit himself to the Pirates for the forthcoming campaign, which starts in October.

And Pirates coach Jon Clark is thrilled to be welcoming the youngster back on to the roster.

“The sky’s the limit for Zach,” said Clark.

“We learnt a lot about his game last season and how best to use his talents.

“He spent tons of time at the point guard spot which is difficult for any player in this league, let alone one who is 19.

“But his willingness to learn from coaches and players like Ronnie Baker really helped him last season and we expect more of his fun-loving attitude this year.”

However, while Gachette will soon be back in Southend, Pirates have confirmed Adrien Sturt and Jamell Anderson will both be moving on.

Sturt has opted to team up with the MK Lions while Anderson has been snapped up by the Leicester Riders to enable him to relocate closer to home.

But Clark is pleased both players have been signed by bigger teams.

“This is great news for both Adrien and Jamell and we couldn’t be any happier for them to be snapped up by more established clubs with larger playing budgets than us,” said Clark.

“It’s what we are all about here in Essex and it’s good to see that last summer wasn’t a one off.

“The wheels of the Pirates machine don’t stop turning and just as we welcome the development of former players, we are eagerly awaiting the next crop of home grown talent to show itself for this season.

“The coaching staff and management have been in attendance at several events this summer and will continue to do so in the run up to our open try out in London.”