Zunic, 18, joins the defending Big South champions following a stint at the Australian Institute of Sports Centre of Excellence, for their 29-game regular season slate.

Since joining his team mates in Rock Hill, South Carolina, the former Sanctuary Point Public School student has gone through one of his toughest pre-seasons of his career.

“Pre-season has been pretty tough – lots of workouts and weights and getting the body right for the season,” Zunic said.

“Also, having seven new guys on the roster, we’ve had to go through a lot of teaching points that we don’t know. There’s been more time spent on those teachings, so all us new guys are up to speed as soon as the first tip-off happens on Friday.

“Comparatively, the training so far here has been a lot more of just playing rather than breaking down all the plays we have. The United States style of play is just about balling out and playing so freely – so that would have to be the biggest difference.”

Making Zunic’s adjustment a little easier is the fact that he joins fellow South Coast product Xavier Cooks, a two-time All-Big South selection, on the roster of the upcoming season.

“The biggest adjustment I’ve had to make is probably the amount of time I have to talk to my family,” he said.

“That’s very limited because I’m so busy and then on top of that, there’s the time difference – it is very difficult trying to get in contact with them when they are free.”

The 189cm guard is hoping to have an immediate impact when he steps on the court for the first time in Winthrop colours.

The Pat Kelsey coached team made all the way to the NCAA Tournament for a first round contest against Butler last season, a goal Zunic’s Eagles once again have.

“As an individual I’m not expecting a great deal - just want to know that I’ve down everything for my team to help our team have a chance to win the Big South Championship and get to the tournament,” he said.

“Personally, you can’t ask for much more than that.

“As a team, the big goal that’s being preached is we’re going back to the tournament.”