Look Who Is In The House Tonight

It’s a case of fourth versus fifth with the head-to-head up for grabs and Sharks coach Atiba Lyons is keen to win as many season series as possible.

“Especially with how it’s shaping up right in the top five right now,” said Lyons.

“The head-to-heads are going to play a big part when it comes to the end of the season, so we’ve got to get as many as we can.”

The two teams have met three times this season in BBL Cup and Championship action, with the home team winning each time, and Lyons believes the Lions will be fired up for this one.

“London had a great couple of games but then slipped up against Durham, but I know them well and Vince will have them ready to go,” he explained.

“They had our number in their gym; they won’t forget that and will use it for motivation.”

Lyons added, “Chez Marks is playing well for them, since he came along and they have a deep bench, with different guys stepping up every night.

“When we played them down in London, Nick Freer had a big game, and Julius Joseph has experience.

“They have that luxury of a few guys who can step up and make plays, but Marks and Rod Brown are probably the main scorers right now.”

Last time they met:

One Health Sharks Sheffield 81 London Lions 70 (BBL Championship, EIS Sheffield, 27/12/2013)

What they say:

London Lions coach Vince Macaulay: “The Sharks are a very tough team to play and we’ve both shown we can beat each other, and it just depends on who comes to play on the night. It’s on their floor, so it’s a tough challenge for us but we look forward to it.

One Health Sharks forward Mike Tuck: “Everyone is looking forward to Friday’s game. We’ve had a week off so the guys are well-rested and hungry to get back on the court.

“The top of the table is fairly close right now so every game is a must win. London are always a tough competitor and by beating Leicester recently have proved they can play with anybody. For us it will be about slowing them down in transition and matching their physicality.”

For information about tickets visit www.sharksbasketball.co.uk

Story – BBL