Worthing Thunder unveil their new American big man tonight declaring: "He's the real deal."

Jonathan Woods, the 6ft 8in centre out of Fresno State college, gets his Thunder debut as they open their EBL season at home to Essex and Herts Leopards (8pm).

Woods did not play in last week's cup mauling of Westside or the narrow friendly defeat to Plymouth Raiders but has looked the part in training for confident Thunder.

Scottish small forward Graham Hunter, who was at Solent last season, and former Bears and Cougars forward Ciaran Burns are the latest additions to what is now a 13-man squad.

But most eyes will be on Woods as he prepares for a tussle with former Bear Errol Seaman at Durrington tonight.

Thunder assistant coach Alan Sweetman-Hicks said; "Jonathan looks tough, athletic and you can tell he is from a division one college. He has all the fundamentals.

"He has the skills the guys from a lower level haven't been taught.

"He's got a lovely jump shot with good range and he looks the real deal.

"He says he's out of shape but he is still running rings around guys at practice."

Woods averaged ten points and six rebounds at the well-regarded Fresno State set-up and had a short spell playing for former Leopards coach Bob Donewald at Chicago Soldiers in the ABA.

Thunder are aiming to play aggressive defence this season and are excited by their progress so far.

Sweetman-Hicks said: "It's a brand new team but it feels like we have been together for ages. As far as I am concerned this is the best team we have ever put on the floor.

"We feel optimistic for the season but tonight's game will be a good test because Leopards have improved from last year."

Thunder have options all over the court and another of their new boys, guard Steve Vear, is relishing his match-up with Steve Ogunjimi.

Sussex's Danny Midgley had seven points on three-for-six shooting as Estudiantes de Lugo lost 65-57 at Sarria Cremosita in the Spanish third division.