Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders head coach Rob Paternostro has made his first signing of the summer with the return of 6'6" American LaTaryl Williams.
The 31-year-old forward was part of the Riders' squad that posted its best-ever league finish when they secured third place in the BBL Championship last term.
"I thought LaTaryl had an excellent year," said Paternostro. "I thought he played well at both ends of the floor and did a lot of little things that don't show up on the box scores. But when you do look at the box scores he did average double figures in points, six rebounds and was amongst the league leaders in blocks for a while. I thought he had a complete year."
Williams averaged ten points, six rebounds and almost one block per game for the Riders in his first season with the club, having previously played for Birmingham and London United.
The American played alongside Paternostro in Birmingham and was a vital part of the Riders' team which reached the BBL Finals Weekend for the first time in eight seasons.
"In some ways I realised the important role he played for us when we didn't have him. There were a few games throughout the year when he was injured and we certainly missed all the intangibles that he brought to the floor. He certainly is a guy that fits in to what we are trying to do."
As well as what he brought on the court, Paternostro was impressed by Williams' contribution off it.
"He certainly brought his hard hat every time he came to play, but the thing about LaTaryl is he is a highly intelligent player. He knows a lot about the other teams scouting report. He was a great asset for us both on and off the court," Paternostro concluded.
Source: www.bbl.org.uk
