The Heat started off the 2008-2009 pre-season with the announcement of signing former Heat favourite Kabir Abu, as well as American Keonta Howell and Croatian star Hrvoje Pervan. However it was revealed weeks later that Pervan's transfer had broken down due to administrative errors. Among those returning from the previous season were Heat Captain, Mike Martin, point-guard, EJ Harrison, and shooting guard, Dean Williams, while Heat fan-favourite Chad McKnight also rejoined the Heat after a one-year stint at the Leicester Riders. The line-up was completed with the signing of British big man Alan Metcalfe and shooting guard Daniel Sandell.