VETERAN forward James Hamilton has been installed as club captain of BiG Storage Cheshire Jets for the forthcoming campaign.

The giant American – captain of the 2002 ‘JetWash’ team – has a wealth of BBL experience and the decision to make him skipper was described as a ‘no brainer’ by head coach TJ Walker.

Walker added: ‘There is no-one in the squad with as much experience both of playing and of winning.

‘I guess the situation is kind of unique – the two most successful captains ever of teams in the BBL, with both of us having led teams to a clean sweep, both on the same team at the same time.’

Walker has this week been busy putting the finishing touches to his squad.

Alan Duppa, who scored the winning basket in Sunday’s warm-up win against Leicester, has signed after impressing during a trial.

At 6ft 7in, centre Duppa is a Wales international who played last season for Newi Nets of Wrexham.

Jets’ director of basketball Paul Smith said: ‘Alan performed well in the trial and did enough for TJ to invite him on to the team.

‘He played a full part in the game against Leicester, where he ended up second top scorer – so he has shown that he has earned his place. He has both skill and size, and he is not afraid to go in where it hurts.’

The final piece in Walker’s roster jigsaw is Chris Brown.

The 24-year-old, 6ft 7in forward from Chattanooga College in Tennessee was not handed a work permit in time to make his debut against Leicester. But the paperwork is expected to be completed in time for tonight’s BBL opener at Plymouth.

Discussions have continued this week relating to a second year of BiG Storage sponsorship for the Jets.

An announcement is expected soon about the details of a possible deal.