The Beehive-QSOlutions Heat & Dennis Computers Flames have been bouyed by the signings of National League veterans Luke Schenscher & Cherie Gallagher ahead of their match-ups with the visiting Gladstone Power tonight at The Furnace.

Gallagher, a 2015/16 WNBL championship winner with the Townsville Fire brings some much needed experience to our young Flames side and will bolster the frontcourt with the unavailability of Cayla George and Chevvy Paalvast due to national team commitments. Her performances at the back end of the WNBL season and throughout the playoffs were instrumental in the Fire going back to back as WNBL premiers.

Enjoying a break from the game after an arduous 18 months, Gallagher was excited at the opportunity to join the Flames again for the 2016 after enjoying a stellar 2015 season with the club.

"This group of girls is young and enthusiastic and I've been following their progress throughout the season" offered Gallagher. "Nat (Novosel) is one of the best players in the QBL and its exciting to get the chance to play together again after last WNBL season".

Flames head coach Brady Walmsley shared his delight in the addition of Gallagher to the roster for the remainder of the season. "Cherie is a pro, she knows how to win and after having her in the group last year will fit perfectly with what we are trying to do offensively and defensively. She is such a high IQ player and has already shown over the last couple of weeks in training that she has not missed a beat"

The Heat's latest high profile addition, Luke Schenscher adds a size and presence that no other team in the QBL boasts in 2016. Couple that with his pedigree and the benefits for the Heat are very exciting.

An all final-four member in 2004 with Georgia Tech University he helped lead the team to the National Championship game against the University of Connecticut alongside future NBA star Jarrett Jack. Schenscher would go on the spend time with the Chicago Bulls & Portland Trailblazers in the NBA before playing in Germany with Brose Baskets. He returned to the NBL in 2008 with the Adelaide 36ers.

Schenscher is no stranger to Townsville Basketball having spent numerous seasons with the Crocodiles including being voted in the 20 year anniversary team alongside club legends such as John Rillie & Robert Rose.

"Its a great opportunity for me to get back on the court after a frustrating NBL season last year, the boys have been playing great so far this year and I know I can bring something different to the group for the rest of the season" Schenscher offered leading into his first Heat appearance.

"My body is feeling really good and as a professional you want to play as long as you possibly can. Its going to be a lot of fun getting the chance to play with PC again as well"

Heat coach Rodney Anderson couldn't hide his excitement after years of taking in Schenschers play as a staunch supporter and assistant coach of the Crocs.

"Luke brings something different to the table that no one else in the QBL has. He plays with so much poise and is really going to be a huge asset to our team moving forward. To have the ability to bring in a player of his caliber at this stage in the season is a massive bonus for us and he is another guy that is all about winning. All the guys in this group have put personal agendas aside and bought into our culture this year, its really pleasing".

Get down to The Furnace at Townsville StarFM Stadium TONIGHT from 6:30pm to see Cherie and Luke in action against the visiting Gladstone teams. Tickets are still available, to book call 4778 3400.