Nick Nurse is playing down talk of all-star guard Ralph Blalock joining Brighton Bears.

The 28-year-old from Pennsylvania is being linked with a move south from Leicester ahead of the new BBL season, which starts on October 5.

Bears coach Nurse dismissed the talk as "speculation". Blalock is believed to be one of a long list of players being considered for the new campaign.

Skipper Randy Duck is back from the States and stretched his legs with a few games at Brighton beach on Saturday.

Bears and NBL neighbours Worthing Thunder are close to agreeing a date for a friendly match next month.

Thunder have lost the services of assistant coach Neil McElduff, who has moved to London, and have released last season's top scorer Sean Hampton.

McElduff has helped his old club find a new American signing, though Thunder have yet to complete the deal.

Coach Gary Smith heads the Thunder summer camp, starting next Monday for youngsters aged 11-18. Details on 01903 507889.