SOLENT Stars have invited another American into their fold.

Following the success of 25-year-old Dominique Jones from Ohio, they are running the rule over 6ft 10in centre Damond Gregory, who started the season playing in the Irish League.

Formerly at the University of Iowa, 23-year-old Gregory was described in his student days as a big, strong inside player with good defensive qualities and the ability to shoot from distance.

He is due to join the Solent squad for training so that coach Mark Scott can assess his potential.

Stars' visit to Kingston Wildcats tonight will rekindle memories of the 1980s when both sides enjoyed a spell as the best team in the country.

The clubs have fallen on harder times since then, but have made promising starts to this season's National Conference campaign.

Last weekend Kingston led throughout their visit to second-placed Plymouth Raiders only to fall away in the last period and lose 80-73.

But their three-point specialist Soloman Ayinla is an obvious dangerman having packed six long-range beauties in his 25-point haul.

Solent also had the upper hand for the majority of their home fixture against Sutton Pumas - and, unlike Kingston, they managed to stay the course and run out 99-89 winners.

David Butterworth returned from injury to contribute 34 points to the total, but it was the all-round team display that so impressed coach Scott.

"Hopefully our game is beginning to come together. It is great to see the guys playing for one another," commented Scott.

Unsung player Adam Willis and Jones both claimed 11 rebounds and there are signs that Solent are beginning to enjoy more possession of the ball.

Redbridge lad Mark Jackson is right on top of his game and organising team plays to great effect and there has been whole-hearted support from young guns like Anthony Rutter, Chris Glover, Alan McDonald, Ollie Marsh, John Neale and Trevor Donaldson.

Tip-off tonight is 8.15pm at the Tolworth Leisure Centre.