NEW Worcester Wolves head coach Paul James has snapped up former Guildford Heat star Danny Gilbert.

The ex-Heat boss made his old guard forward his first signing for the Univer-sity of Worcester-based club as he looks to rebuild the troubled British Basket-ball League outfit.

James, who was named as the new Wolves chief on Monday, has also captured American point-guard Rod Middleton.

Both players starred for the Buffalo State Bulls in the Mid-American Conference, with Middleton breaking Gilbert’s record of number of games played a year after it was set, and have featured in leagues across Europe.

Gilbert, after graduating from Buffalo State, signed for German second division team FC Schalke. In his one season in Germany, Gilbert averaged 18 points per game.

He then joined Guildford where he helped to lead Heat to the BBL championship and BBL Cup in 2007, averaging an impressive 16.85 points in 33.85 minutes per game with James as coach.

The new Wolves chief is delighted to have captured his former charge once more.

“As soon as I knew I was going to be appointed head coach of the Worcester Wolves, the first player I contacted was Daniel,” James said.

“I recruited him to the Guildford Heat outfit and he has proved to be one of the most talented all-round players I have ever worked with.

“He is an exceptional defender and can score in many ways.

“Daniel was a very valuable piece of the Heat’s successful jigsaw. I am very excited about working with him once again.”

Middleton’s professional career saw him play in both the German Pro ‘A’ League for MBC and prior to that for Clermont in the French Pro ‘A’.

He also competed in the National Invitational Tournament in 2004-2005 where Buffalo reached the second round.

He was named MAC defensive player of the year the following campaign by Streets and Smiths magazine and was part of the most successful class in the school’s history, winning 55 games.

“Rod is a great floor leader who likes to fast break,” said James. “He has the ability to break down defences and get into lane, creating shots for himself and others.

“He’s a good defender who takes pride in his defence. He has a great work ethic and plays hard at both ends of the court for the entire game.

“Rod will be a great addition to the Wolves team because he brings commitment, passion and a winning attitude.

“He is a team player whose only goal is to win and be successful.”