WORCESTER Wolves have called upon the experience of former Great Britain boss Tony Garbelotto while head coach Ty Shaw continues his recovery.

Garbelotto, 50, will head up Wolves’ coaching team for one month and will be on the sideline at Friday’s British Basketball League clash with Newcastle Eagles at the University of Worcester Arena (7.30pm).

Shaw was taken ill during Worcester’s defeat at Sheffield Sharks in early January and is still recovering at home.

Assistant coach Dean Blake had been put in temporary charge. But Wolves confirmed Blake has decided to prioritise family matters due to the “imminent arrival of a new baby”.

Managing director Mick Donovan has now brought in Garbelotto who has a wealth of experience coaching in the BBL and at international level.

“We continue to make adaptions to deal with the challenges that we face this season,” Donovan said.

“Clearly, we are both excited and supportive for Dean at this important time for him and his family. Sport is important, but family must come first.

“Tony has a proven track record at all levels as an excellent coach and his appointment sends out a clear message that we are still fighting to win every game that we can and repay the support of our passionate fan base.

“We sincerely appreciate Tony’s support and experience at this time as we await the return of Ty.”

Garbelotto began his coaching career as an assistant at his local team London Towers, now London Lions, back in 1992.

Since then he has led Newcastle Eagles, Birmingham Bullets and Everton Tigers.

During his time at the Tigers he coached the team to five pieces of BBL silverware, winning the treble in 2010-11.

He has also spent time abroad as head coach of Icelandic side Vestri, German Pro A team MLP Academics Heidelberg and ASEAN Basketball League Saigon Heat.

At international level he has coached Vietnam and most recently juggled his positions as Great Britain and Scotland boss with the head coach role at Glasgow Rocks before stepping down for personal reasons in February last year.

Garbelotto now arrives at Wolves who sit at the foot of the table after a run of 16 straight league defeats.

“I am excited about joining the Worcester organisation on a temporary basis,” Garbelotto said.

“Although the club has struggled with results this season, there is a huge amount of talent and high level players on the roster and I hope I can help them to continue to work towards achieving their potential.”