HEAD coach Paul James’ departure from Worcester Wolves has been described as a bolt from the blue by forward Dominic Ives.

Wolves confirmed they would be looking to find a new man to take over at the helm after announcing James’ exit yesterday.

The 53-year-old has been in charge of the British Basketball League outfit since 2009, leading them to BBL Trophy and BBL play-off glory in 2014.

But Leicester-born James will end his nine-year reign on Saturday with Plymouth Raiders rumoured to be his next destination after Gavin Love stepped down as head coach last month.

Ives, who has worked under James for the past three seasons, was surprised by the news as he had been given no indication the boss was looking to move on.

“It has come out of the blue,” said Ives.

“There were rumours going around about him looking to go to other teams.

“But I didn’t think much of it so I am a bit surprised to be honest.

“I am unsure why this has happened. He hasn’t had a bad run at the club as we have always made the play-offs and had good runs in the cup and trophy.”

Ives, who has finished his final year studying sports and exercise science at the University of Worcester, had his most successful season in 2017-18, making 16 appearances for Wolves.

And the 22-year-old from Kent said he was recently offered the chance to extend his stay at the club by James.

“I am not too sure on my current situation now.” Ives added.

“I have had options to go to other places but I also had the option to stay here and carry on with my academic studies.

“When I spoke to PJ he was more than happy to have me back so I am not too sure where that stands now.

“I will speak to the people at the club and see what happens.”

James had a successful spell at Guildford Heat before replacing Chuck Evans as Worcester boss nine years ago.

After finishing ninth in his first two seasons, James established Wolves as top-four contenders as they consistently battled for silverware.

Last term he guided Wolves to the BBL Cup final, losing to Cheshire Phoenix at the Arena Birmingham in January, and to the play-off quarter-finals.

In a club statement, James said: “I have enjoyed my time with Worcester Wolves and now look forward to exploring new opportunities for myself and my family.”

Managing director Mick Donovan said: “We recognise that Paul played a key role in taking the club to a higher level and thank him for his invaluable contribution. Everyone at Wolves wishes Paul well in the future.”

Orlan Jackman, who played for Wolves in the 2015-16 season, said “meticulous” James would leave big shoes to fill at Worcester.

“He has done so much for the club and the university,” said Jackman who is now playing for Cheshire Phoenix.

“I wish him the best of luck in the future and hopefully he will get a job somewhere else.

“Worcester have been putting in provisions to share his power among other people so he is not so busy. But I am surprised this has happened so quickly.

“What he achieved at Wolves was amazing. He was very meticulous and expected everyone to be as hungry as he was.

“Whoever comes in has to know the club have got a strong following and they have got to produce to make sure these crowds are satisfied.”