Jackson played college basketball with Duquesne Dukes in Pittsburgh

Newcastle Eagles managing director Paul Blake believes new signing Reggie Jackson could be the solution to the club's ongoing point guard problem.

Eagles have struggled to fill the gap left by the departure of TJ Walker in 2007 but Blake is confident Jackson has the calibre to step into the position.

"It's difficult because point guard is a key position and they're big shoes to fill," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"I get the feeling with this kid that it's similar to when we signed TJ."

The 23-year-old arrives in the British Baketball League from US college basketball, where he appeared for Duquesne Dukes in the Atlantic 10 conference.

Jackson has also been joined at the Arena by guard Trey Moore and forward Tafari Toney, and Blake believes their arrivals has raised the quality of the squad available to coach Fab Flournoy.

"Trey Moore is a straightforward situation, alongside Lynard he's another League MVP [Most Valuable Player], he brings a fair bit of experience, and done his European stint," he said.

"Tafari Toney is a different story," he said. "He's fresh out of a very good college, playing in one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.

"The shape of the team is a lot better than last year in terms of covering all the positions on the basketball court.

"As much as anything else our goal is to move on a step, win trophies, and to win the league again."