CHEZ Marks has brought in former Durham Wildcat Chris Pearce to restore some depth to the Cheshire Jets squad.

The Barrow-in-Furness born 6ft 4in shooting guard began his career hoping to break into Fab Flournoy’s Newcastle Eagles side.

A move to the National League with Durham Wildcats for a season eventually brought him his BBL Championship opportunity when, 12 months later, they were accepted into the league.

He went out to play in Germany in the summer but when things didn't work out, he returned and having secured a basketball development job with Wigan Athletic FC’s Premier League for Sport programme and spent some time training with the Jets, Marks has handed him a jersey.

“I tried out for the team when James Hamilton was here and he was interested in me,” said Pearce. “I have been training with the lads and was glad Chez asked me to sign as I know I can perform to the level required in the BBL.”

Pearce knows all about how hard it is to compete in the BBL after a tough season in the North East last term, but he has seen enough to be confident that the Jets could surprise everyone once they settle in.

“I’ve been training with these guys and the imports are really strong,” he said. “Plus there is a lot of experience around with Chez, Shawn Myers and Phil Brandreth.

“Experience was what we lacked at Durham last season. But here I have seen enough talent to predict some big wins and hopefully a play-off spot in a few months time.”