Reggie JacksonNewcastle Eagles have added another returnee from their treble winning team for the forthcoming 2009/10 BBL campaign after point guard Reggie Jackson put pen to paper on a new deal.

The 24 year old will link up with player-coach Fab Flournoy, captain Andrew Bridge, former league MVP Lynard Stewart and Darius Defoe in the pursuit of more silverware.

Having made a sluggish start in his rookie professional season, Jackson eventually established himself as one of the premier players in the BBL last year with a string of impressive displays.

Flournoy is confident that Jackson can repeat his stellar form in an Eagles vest when he returns to Tyneside and is looking forward to working with the Duquesne graduate again.

"To have true continuity for the season ahead I think it was important that we got Reggie back at the point position."

"That is a huge bonus not just for the team but it also takes some of the pressure off me a little a coach because we know that Reggie now has a season of BBL experience under his belt."

"There were some difficult times for Reggie early in his career at this club but he showed his character and what he is capable of on the floor with some really great performances and he was integral to what we achieved."

"His quickness and ability to defend the better guards in the league was fundamental for us in some of the bigger games."

"Not many players win three trophies in their first pro- season and I know that Reggie can get even better and he will certainly have to because the league will be even stronger."

Jackson averaged 12 points, 2 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.8 steals per game during last season and delighted supporters with his all round game. Meanwhile Eagles Managing Director Paul Blake has spoken of his relief after finally getting his man.

"It's been a long road to get Reggie back on board for various reasons but as it stands, we are happy, he is happy and I am guessing the fans will be very, very happy."

"Reggie was definitely a huge favourite on and off the court during his first year and I am just glad that we have got him back on board."

"After TJ Walker got injured and then left the club after so many years , we kind of stumbled our way for a little bit but Reggie came in and did a superb job showing their was definitely life after TJ."

"He took a little time to get adjusted to playing professional basketball which is to be expected after a College career and from early December just got stronger and stronger."

"I think that it gives comfort for Fab to have someone back top run the point who knows the ethos of the club and what Fab is looking for so hopefully that gives us a head start again this season on some of our rivals."

"Having said that, I think there have been some good signings around the league so it will be tough for us – as it always is."

The Eagles will be putting the finishing touches to their roster in the next fortnight as they look to make further additions to both their backcourt and frontcourt.

Source: www.bbl.org.uk