GUARDS Rafi Saipe and Dwayne Camille have rejoined Bradford Dragons for the 2016-17 season.

The news follows quickly on the heels of the club announcing the return of Rihards Sulcs and Jermayne Laing to the Dragons Den for another campaign.

Saipe is back for his third season in Bradford colours, having first joined in 2014 from neighbours Leeds Force.

Having spent most of his first season as a bench player, he firmly established himself in the starting five last time around. Known for his tenacious defending, 6ft 2in Saipe is also a capable shooter and rebounder at the offensive end.

Saipe said: "I'm looking forward to the new season and improving on last season by reaching the play-offs. I know that if we work hard, play together and listen to the coaching staff that this will be doable.

"Manchester Magic is our first competitive game, which will be a good test against last season's quadruple champions."

Dragons head coach Chris Mellor added: "Rafi has had a couple of solid seasons but I'm expecting more now, especially at the offensive end.

"He's a tough, smart, defensive player who knows how to compete and, with the necessary improvement and correct mindset, he can make a difference at both ends of the court."

Meanwhile, Camille – who has experience of playing in the elite British Basketball League with Leeds Force, will be starting his first full season for the Dragons.

Having joined just before the close of the transfer window in January, the six-footer was quick to excite Bradford's supporters with his tricky footwork and speed.

"Joining the Dragons halfway through the 2015-16 season really gave me a sense of hunger to see what we could do as a complete team from start to finish," said Camille.

"When coach Mellor offered me a spot on this year's roster, I showed no hesitation in accepting the role.

"We had some really great games last year, which highlighted what we can achieve when everybody is on the same page, not to forget that we also had some bad games, which we have all learned from.

"As a young player, I intend on making a lot of improvements from last season, on both sides of the floor.

"Even though I joined the team late last season, I still felt that I could have done more to help lead the team. Watching back on tape and speaking to my team-mates and coaches, I know what I can do to help improve this aspect of my game.

"With the help of the coaching staff and my team-mates, I know they will give the tools and support that I need to raise my game up to the next level. I aim to help this team make the play-offs and turn some heads this forthcoming season."

Mellor added: "Dwayne came halfway through last season, which I know was difficult for him, but I think we will see far more consistency from him this year. He is definitely a player that we haven't seen the best of yet."