Guildford Heat have signed forward Frank Holmes for the season to replace the injured American Mike Copeland.

Holmes, also American, replaces Copeland who is out for the season with a season-ending knee injury sustained against Glasgow Rocks.

Heat’s new American has had previous BBL experience with Milton Keynes Lions and Leicester Riders.

“Copeland made a huge impact in a short space of time and I wanted to replace him with a player with a strong track record in the BBL,” said Guildford coach Creon Raftopoulos.

“I am delighted that we worked a deal to bring Frank Holmes in for the remainder of the season. We put in a winning performance at the weekend and I am confident that Frank can hit the ground running and help 2012 be a more successful year for Guildford Heat.”

Guildford Heat easily beat Durham Wildcats on New Year’s Day to move off the bottom of the BBL.

Elsewhere, Worcester Wolves’ big man Richie Gordon yesterday was named the BBL Player of the Month for December. Plymouth Raiders’ Gavin Love won the Coach of the Month award.