“The board of the South Dragons has voted unanimously to reappoint Shane Heal for a further two years, ’’ Dragons chairman Mark Cowan said.

“We believe Shane deserves to be given the opportunity to continue in the role. He accepted it in difficult circumstances and has done an outstanding job.”

“As a club, we need to be able to consolidate on our first season with continuity of coaching and get ready for next year early.”

Shane’s stature in world of basketball should also allow the Dragons to entice high-calibre players to the club in the future.

Heal, who turned the team’s fortunes around after a 0-6 start, has now got the team into playoff contention. A win in tomorrow night's game against the New Zealand Breakers will propel the Dragons into the top eight.