Pearce signs up for second spell with Phoenix

Chris Pearce has become John Lavery’s second re-signing of the summer for Cheshire Phoenix.

The 6ft 4in guard from Barrow, Cumbria, was crucial at times last season off the bench as Phoenix struggled with injuries and off-court issues, and was able to be called upon when required.

A second spell at Northgate Arena, after previous BBL experience on the rosters of Newcastle Eagles and Durham Wildcats, may give rise for Pearce to prove himself more worthy than of playing a role off the bench, and new Head Coach Lavery believes he has it in the tank to make a big effect on court.

“He’s got a real engine on him,” said Lavery. “He will run hard and he won’t stop and it is that kind of hustle that can change games in the BBL.

“There are a lot of guys who like to take their time and do things their way but Chris disrupts that and he is very good at it.

“He is also a great guy to have around the locker room. He is always smiling or cracking a joke and sometimes a squad needs that.”

For Chris, deciding to return to the Phoenix was not a hard choice: “When I came here in the middle of last season, it instantly felt like home,” he said. “So when Coach Lavery offered me the opportunity to come back again I didn’t hesitate.

“It is a real community club but one which packs a punch in the BBL. Now it is time for us to make it count and bring some titles back to the Northgate Arena.”