American Calvin Henry joins the club as the replacement for Haminn Quaintance, who was not signed up again after the Blues bowed out of the finals in the opening week last season.

The defensive machine, expected to arrive in Australia on Sunday, is expected to have six weeks to gel with his new teammates before their season kicks off on March 17 against Bendigo at the Frankston Basketball Centre.

Henry, a 204cm forward, has the ability to play inside and outside. He also has a reputation as a strong defender, having been named defensive player of the year in his college days at Mercer University in Georgia.

"To be honest I don't know a lot about him," Runchey said. "Apparently he is a good defender - Kilsyth had him on their short list as well."

Henry's former coach at Mercer University, Bob Hoffman, said the Blues have signed a player who will give his all and contribute strongly to the culture of the club.

"Calvin is a great young man," he said. "He will work his heart out for you. Basketball is his love and he puts every ounce of energy on the floor. You will not find a better young man both on and off the court to play for you than Calvin."

The Blues' only confirmed departure is Mitch Riggs, who has signed with a division 2 college in America. The Blues finished third in the south conference last year but will be part of the east conference along with Bendigo, Brisbane, Canberra, Dandenong, Geelong and Sandringham this year.