MATT Newby has been unveiled as the new head coach of Worcester Wolves – and has high hopes ahead of the 2019-20 season.

The experienced coach fills the void left by Tony Garbelotto who departed in May after agreeing to take charge of Wolves until the end of last term following Ty Shaw’s exit.

Newby was previously head coach and director of basketball at ex-British Basketball League outfit Leeds Force.

He spent three years in the hotseat before leaving in 2017 but continued to lead the basketball programme at Leeds Beckett University.

Wolves finished the 2018-19 league campaign level on points with bottom club Surrey Scorchers.

But Newby insists Worcester will be "looking to return to the top of the league” and “contending with the very best” next term.

“I am really excited about the opportunity we have here in Worcester to further develop what is an outstanding franchise with storied history and incredible pedigree,” Newby said.

“To return to the floor in the BBL is a privilege this is amplified by the prestige of representing the Worcester Wolves and Worcester University.

“The fan base in Worcester is incredible not simple by virtue of numbers but their passion and desire for success. I look forward to getting to know them.

“In 2019-20 we will be looking to return to the top of the league and contending with the very best, the BBL continues to go from strength to strength with 2018-19 the most competitive it has been in recent years.

“With the emergence of the Royals the resurgence of the Lions and the perennial consistency of Leicester and Newcastle coupled with the ambition of franchises such as Plymouth, Cheshire, Bristol and Glasgow there is a lot to be excited about.

“I look forward to the established rivalries and igniting new ones.

“I would like to thank the Worcester Wolves board and specifically Mick Donovan for the opportunity and entrusting me with this tenure.”

Managing director Mick Donovan is excited by the appointment of Newby who has also been team leader and coach of the Basketball England 3x3 national set-up.

Worcester begin their season with a home clash with London Lions on Friday, September 20 but have yet to announce any signings.

“We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Matt to the Worcester Wolves as our head coach,” Donovan said.

“He brings a genuine hunger and desire to succeed that will clearly align with the approach of our fans.

“He has shown at all levels of coaching that he has a deep understanding of the game and we look forward to working with him to assemble our team for the coming season.”