
Veteran, 3-point specialist, Jason Swaine, has committed to a second season with the Dragons.
Swaine brings vast experience to the Dragons’ roster, having represented England’s senior men’s team on no fewer than 24 occasions, as well as amassing an impressive array of honours. Having won virtually everything possible in the British Basketball League with Shefield Sharks and Manchester Giants, he has also won quadruple English division one titles with Teeside Mohawks.
On committing to a further season in Bradford colours, Swaine said, “Once again I feel privileged to be a part of Coach Mellor’s team. It’s always important to me to play in a team that works together and I am looking forward to supporting my teammates and contributing as much as I can. I know, as always, we will achieve what we can. When you have played for a long time you understand that winning and losing just becomes the end result. The most important thing is how you do things as a team, to be the very best that you can. I am really looking forward to the season ahead.”
Dragons’ head coach, Chris Mellor, enthused, “Having Jason back is great news. He still practices and plays with great enthusiasm. His leadership qualities and the ability to hit big shots will obviously be very important to us this season. He may be a veteran but he still allows himself to be coached, which I believe is so important and obviously a big help for me.”
Whilst Jason may be nearing the end of his illustrious playing career, the Dragons also unveiled another new signing in 16 year old Eisley Swaine.
6’2” guard, Eisley, has played at junior level for the Dragons for a number of years, representing the club in multiple age groups, whilst also making a couple of cameo appearances for the seniors last season. He has represented England at both under 15’s and under 16’s level and has recently been selected for the England under 17’s squad. During this close season, Eisley was presented with the MVP awards at the Basketball Eurocamps in both Bradford and Barrow.
Eisley stated, “I feel fortunate to have been given the opportunity to learn from such a great coach (Chris Mellor) and to play at a very high level. I know that it will be a tough learning curve but, as always, I am looking forward to working hard and improving my game. I hope to make the most of this opportunity and to become a better player, whilst also contributing to the team’s success throughout the season.”
Mellor, added, “Eisley has done a great job with our junior program over the last few years and now it is time to see if he can make an impact at Men’s level. He has worked hard over the summer to improve elements in his game and, like Jason, he won’t be afraid of the moment when his chance arrives.”
Both Jason and Eisley will travel with the Dragons squad for this weekend’s opening fixtures at Leicester Warriors in the National Trophy (Saturday) followed by a National Cup first round tie at Doncaster Danum Eagles (Sunday).