Everybody talks about his veteran leadership, but he is a very talented player no matter how young or old Leicester coach Rob Paternostro

Veteran forward Tony Windless has become the fourth player to return to Leicester Riders for the new season.

The 39-year-old joined last summer and played a key role from the bench as the Riders finished in third spot in the BBL - their best ever league placing.

Coach Rob Paternostro was delighted to re-sign Windless: "I was very impressed with what he gave us last season.

"He filled a role for us as a scorer off the bench and that was so important to what we were trying to do."

Windless notched up 12.7 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game last year and Paternostro was delighted with his contribution.

"He is a great rebounder as well, someone who gives you about six-and-a-half rebounds a game and he was up there in the league in rebounding," Paternostro said.

"He still has plenty to give. Certainly when the game is on the line, he is ready to go. Everybody talks about his veteran leadership, but let's not forget that he is a very talented player no matter how young, old or whatever.

It was great to be around a guy who valued winning so highly and who'll do whatever it takes Rob Paternostro

"With the young guys we had last year it certainly helped in the locker room and we're looking forward to having Tony back."

Riders have already re-signed LaTaryl Williams, Barry Lamble and Isaac Westbrook.

And Paternostro had no doubts about re-signing Windless.

"Tony is a really hungry player. When we take the floor all he cares about is whether we win or lose," Paternostro said.

"Watching him over the years, I knew he was talented and he had tremendous ability, but I didn't know him like that.

"Working with him last year it was great to be around a guy who valued winning so highly and who'll do whatever it takes."

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