Booker wanted to repay the faith that the team and town had shown him – especially when he sustained a season-ending injury just when the Miners were gathering momentum in the South East Australian Basketball League.

The GMHBA Miners confirmed on Tuesday morning the fan-favourite has signed on for a second season – a week before Booker is scheduled to fly back to the United States.

“I stayed (out this season) because they were committed to me and still took care of me – it was the right thing,” Booker said.

“I’ve gotta be loyal ... I go by the business side of things, that’s always good, but for me it’s about being comfortable and that’s more important.

“Ballarat feels homey. This is the only place I have played overseas where I didn’t get completely homesick.”

Booker’s plan had always been to return to Ballarat after a stint in Argentina that would have taken him until March.

Booker quickly worked his way into the Ballarat community with self-initiated school visits and basketball clinics that went beyond his designated club duties, including individual training sessions with young talent.

He stayed in Ballarat two weeks longer than his teammates were released because he was committed to finishing up his classroom work at Delacombe Primary School where he will visit on Friday before he flies out.

“I love it when kids smile – that’s everything for me – it’s like winning a championship,” Booker said.

“Especially when you teach a kid something and see them do it.

“When I was injured, they seemed to come up to me more at games and when that happens, it makes you feel really special too.”

The American had been highly touted as a league most valuable player prospect until he sustained the ankle injury in late June.

Booker topped the SEABL in average points (28.5 a game), average assists (6.9) and ranked second in the league for three points made – he shot 76 from his 15 games. 

He chalked up 40-plus points in three games, collected two SEABL player of the week awards and was the SEABL player of the month for May.

His surgeon and physiotherapist have indicated he is well ahead of schedule in his recovery.

But it was frustrating for Booker to not be able to get on court and help the Miners through to SEABL finals.

“I’m so proud of how they played after I got hurt,” Booker said.

“They all listened to what I had to say and soaked it in like a sponge.

“A lot of the younger guys are spending more time in the weight room at the gym than I’ve ever seen them do.

“They’re already more focused and determined than when I first got here.”

Booker will fly home to Missouri on Monday and return to Australia in January for training.