Williams was a crowd favourite last season with the Heat, who are now contesting the highly competitive Division One competition of the Big V.

His average of 25.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, two steals and two blocks per game will be required in a league where many of the Melbourne teams have loaded their rosters with strong basketball talent.

Reigning Division One grand finalists Geelong and Warrnambool will also feature strongly in the expanded competition.

Heat coach James Madigan was delighted to have Williams once again back in Mildura and suiting up for another tough Big V campaign.

“We are really looking forward to having Jermaine back with the Heat this season, his experience will be needed with the huge step up to division one this season,” Madigan said.

“The quality of basketball seen this year will be the best brand we have had in Mildura since 2007 and probably even a step up from that with all teams having quality imports and loading up their teams with big-name players from all around the country.”

Madigan echoed the sentiments of all in the Mildura basketball community, with the return of Williams set to create a buzz in the district.

“Jermaine’s presence around the stadium and in our town has been missed since he departed last September and I know a lot of people have missed him being around the place and I can’t wait to see him back,” he said.

The Mildura Heat and Lady Heat are now in full pre-season training and working hard towards tip off for the new season which will begin on Saturday, March 17.

This article appeared in Tuesday's Sunraysia Daily 7/2/2012.