Cameron to coach Saints

Pero Cameron, New Zealand's most high profile basketball player, has signed a three year deal to coach Wellington in the National Basketball League.

Cameron said today he was grateful to the Saints for giving him the opportunity to kick start his coaching career.

"The Saints run a very good programme and I didn't have to think twice about the opportunity presented to me.

"I want to be a successful coach and I see the environment at the Saints and the calibre of players we are chasing as the perfect place to start my coaching career."

Saints general manager Shaun Gill said the team wanted a New Zealand coach after recent unsuccessful years using overseas coaches.

"In terms of leaders in the game, no one comes close to Pero and I believe he's going to be a great coach and will lead the Tall Blacks in the future."

Cameron, 35, has nine NBL titles to his name.

He has been a backbone of the Tall Blacks since debuting in 1994 and was instrumental in their semifinal finish at the 2002 world championships,

The pinnacle of his career was being selected in the All Star Five at the 2002 World Championships with NBA stars Dirk Nowitzki, Manu Ginobli, Yao Ming and Peja Stojakovic. This accolade came on the back of leading the Tall Blacks to fourth place.

Cameron won a record ninth NBL title with Waikato Pistons this year.

- NZPA