FORMER Manchester Giants coach Jeff Jones has been appointed as Greater Manchester’s new basketball development officer.

Jones, who played for the Giants from 1976 to 1982, says: ‘‘It’s a great chance to raise public awareness of basketball in Manchester and work closely with those children out there that are involved with, or want to get involved with the sport.’’

The venture is being run in association with the Manchester Evening News’ award-winning website www.sportloco.com, who have provided £15,000. That was matched by a £9,000 grant from the Government’s Sportsmatch scheme.

Jones, who graduated through the junior ranks in his home country, excelling at Oklahoma University, added: ‘‘There is a wealth of talent in this country, but the profile of the game does need raising.

‘‘In America we have scholarships in place and the kids practice every day. Hopefully, we will be able to incorporate that in to our programme here.’’

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