Taunton Tigers have already made their first signing of the summer in preparation for their daunting start in National Division 1 in September.

The club is delighted to announce that Ian Spearman has signed from rivals Plymouth Raiders to boost the Tigers squad. Ian captained the Raiders II side in National Division 2 last season and will bring extra fire power and an explosive all-court game to Taunton.

As a Tigers academy graduate, Spearman joined the Tamar Valley Club when he became a student in Plymouth before going on to play for the Raiders club. Although only 5’ 8” he plays above the ring and will now rival Joe Andrews as the quickest player in Somerset.

Ian is excited about ‘coming home’ where he hopes to work as a professional coach and he is looking forward to playing at the top level of the English Basketball League:

"Plymouth has been fantastic and I thank Lee (Coach) for giving me the support, responsibility and a major role that has allowed me to develop as a player. However the opportunity of returning to my home club at such an exciting time was too good to turn down."

Spearman is an excellent outside shooter and coupled with his fast break ability he is a serious offensive threat. Ronnie Heath, Head Coach believes that he suits the Tigers’ Style of play.

"Ian is a more mature player than when he left us and he has developed leadership qualities. It is our aggressive defence and high tempo transition game that has got us promoted and he brings plenty of that. He already knows most of the players and I am convinced he will adjust and fit in really quickly."

Heath intends to bring in at least 2 other players to bolster the squad ahead of next season’s campaign but insists they must find jobs in the local community and he refuses to ask the club to finance imported players common to the other Division 1 clubs.