AMERICAN guard Malik Smith has left Worcester Wolves three matches into their British Basketball League campaign.

Former Iowa Energy star Smith came off the bench to score three points in Wolves’ crushing 88-54 defeat at fancied Leicester Riders on Saturday.

Wolves head coach Paul James said: “We decided to part ways - it was not the fit that both parties thought it was going to be.

“We are very appreciative of the work Malik has put in with us and we will be looking for a replacement for him.”

Smith, who is returning to Boston in the USA, said: “I want to thank the Worcester Wolves for the opportunity, but it just didn't seem to work out from the start.”

Meanwhile, coach James has asked Wolves supporters to have patience with his new-look side.

“We were disappointed with our display at Leicester and, although our defending was pretty solid, our scoring was an issue.

“It was a tough pill to swallow but everybody in the squad will be working hard to bounce back in the right manner.

“We are only three games into the season and it will take time to gel.

“We are still trying to find our rhythm and understand our roles.

“The guys who have not played in the league before will now be aware of the standards they need to reach.”

Wolves, who squeezed past Bristol Flyers 78-76 on Friday, are back in action at Manchester Giants on October 11.