The_Champ33
Years ago
Heal rules out Bullets return
VETERAN point guard Shane Heal has ruled out returning to his old NBL club Brisbane following the loss of Bullets stars CJ Bruton and Sam Mackinnon.
Former South Dragons player-coach Heal repeated his stance that he would only consider signing with the Gold Coast Blaze for the 2008-09 season and beyond after recently stating he had five more years left in the NBL.
Championship-winning point guard Bruton has told Brisbane's new general manager Brian Kerle and coach Joey Wright he has accepted a lucrative European offer, while Mackinnon has asked to be released from his contract.
Bruton's departure leaves a gaping hole at the point guard position, but Gold Coast-based Heal gave a direct response when asked if he would consider joining the Bullets.
The only way Heal will continue his NBL career is under Blaze coach Brendan Joyce, a long-time friend.
"No mate," he said. "I'm only considering playing for Brendan because we go back a long way."
Heal, 37, has met with Blaze chief executive Dave Claxton and Joyce to discuss their recruitment plans for the upcoming season.
But the four-time Olympian said he wasn't interesting in joining the Blaze unless they recruited a second import to replace Jason Crowe.
Import Juaquin Hawkins is set to return from a mild stroke and play next season.
"I'm sitting here waiting (for the Blaze's plans)," said Heal, who played for the Bullets from 1992-95.
"I've got a lot on my plate business-wise and it's not a bargain-basement deal where I'm begging to play for the Gold Coast Blaze.
"The only reason why the Blaze are an interesting prospect for me is because of my relationship with Brendan Joyce and the respect I have for him.
"I've laid it all on the table. It'd be great to have the opportunity to play under Brendan."
Heal lives on the Gold Coast with his wife Jenny and three young daughters.
He is ranked an eight on the NBL points system.
Players are ranked one to 10 at the end of each season with each club restricted to 68 total player points.
"It's back in their court, which way it's going to go," said Heal.
"I'm not too fussed about it."
AAP
Courtesy of Foxsports.
