Bullets revisit glory days and honour greats

BASKETBALL BRISBANE coach Andrej Lemanis says the present-day squad has a “special” opportunity to honour the club greats that made the Bullets a sporting powerhouse.

Members of Brisbane’s championship-winning sides in 1985 and 1987 will be feted at tomorrow’s clash with Melbourne United at Boondall as part of the NBL’s Heritage Month celebrations.

The likes of “Leapin” Leroy Loggins, Larry Sengstock, Brian Kerle, Robert “Baseline Bandit” Sibley, John “Chicken Farmer” Dorge, “Dr Who” Danny Morseu and Darren “Spank” Perry are set to join past teammates, coaches and administrators to relive past glories.

The Bullets made four consecutive grand finals from 1984 to 1987 and put the sport on the map while also making the players household names.

While the present squad is having its struggles at secondlast on the ladder with a 7-14 win-loss record, basketball history buff Lemanis said the match-up with the leagueleading United was a chance to do the past heroes proud.

“Without these guys, the Bullets name doesn’t have the status that it holds,” Lemanis said.

“The Bullets are who they are because of what those guys did and we certainly value the rich history of the club.

“It’s always important to appreciate those that have gone before you.”

Brisbane will wear a uniform based on the 1985 kit when the Bullets beat Adelaide at Chandler to capture the club’s first title. United’s retro uniform will be based on the old Melbourne Tigers strip.

Brisbane will train today and will closely monitor the fitness of Boomers forward Daniel Kickert, who missed last week’s loss to Perth with a calf injury.

IT’S ALWAYS IMPORTANT TO APPRECIATE THOSE THAT HAVE GONE BEFORE YOU