Newcastle issue Charles Smith ultimatum

Newcastle have issued veteran forward Charles Smith with an ultimatum, as they look to build their roster for next season.

Smith, 36, starred in the Eagles’ clean sweep last season, picking up the MVP award after a stunning display in January’s BBL Cup final victory over Plymouth.

He waited until August last year before committing to the Eagles for the new season, but the club are keen to avoid a repeat of that, particularly with player-coach Fab Flournoy’s media commitments at the Olympics.

Owner Paul Blake told the Newcastle Journal: “Fab has given Charles a date he would like to get a decision from him but I’m sure Charles will want to look at what other options he’s got.

“I think from Fab’s perspective he would like to get these things sorted out as soon as he can – especially with the Olympics coming up and his commitments to the BBC.”

Smith averaged 18.8 points per game in 40 appearances for the Eagles in 2011/12.

The champions have already lost Andy Thomson, who has opted to make the move to France with La Rochelle.