New boy Jason Siemon has revealed the huge role played by Nick Nurse in persuading him to join Brighton Bears.

The 6ft 9ins 32-year-old centre finally completed his switch from Milton Keynes last night and will be one of two new faces in action this weekend.

The other will be bright English prospect Tom Frederick as Bears host an American select at the Triangle today and Worthing Thunder at the Brighton Centre tomorrow (both 6pm).

Siemon, like Nurse, comes from Iowa and says he has long been an admirer of the Bears coach and owner.

He revealed: "I have always had a lot of respect for Nick as a coach and I really like his style of game.

"Brighton have got a tradition for winning these days.

"I've played against Randy Duck and he has always been a thorn in our side so if you can't beat them join them.

"I've also played with Rico Alderson in a tournament in Vegas last summer and he has got a great work ethic.

"Everybody at Brighton is so committed and I can't wait to run with them."

Siemon, whose previous clubs include Thames Valley, Hemel and Derby, has in fact been running with the Bears all week, ever since a move to Greece fell through.

He joined in training and the private practice match with a makeshift London United line-up. Early indications are he will provide a powerful front court duo with Kendrick Warren.

Siemon has been impressed by the quality of work Bears have put in at Falmer this week and joked: "They should sell tickets to our practice sessions."

Nurse said: "I tried to sign Jason last year. He is big and strong and a proven BBL player."

Siemon recieved an Irish passport this summer, though marriage, so is ideally qualified for ULEB Cup action.

Frederick, who has also been linked with a move to Greece recently, averaged 12.9 points per game for Califoirnia (Pa) last season and has also played college basketball for Morgan State, where his rivals included former Bears Kevin Wallace and Demetric Reese in their Maryland days.

Nurse said: "Tom is a quality young English player, a typical all-rounder who does not really have a set position, and I'm just having a look at him."