Look who’s in the house tonight

Sharks were dumped out of the Cup at the semi-final stage but bounced back to beat Birmingham Knights and reclaim their place atop the BBL Championship.

Tuck believes the pain of that defeat could be the spark they need to strive for success, starting against Glasgow Rocks on Friday.

“The team’s focus is now the league championship and winning games to stay at the top of the table,” said Tuck.

“The loss to Eagles is a bit of an eye-opener and will light a fire under us to prove that we are the best team in the league.”

Sharks hold the league’s best record at 11-2 while Rocks sit at 6-7 – but Tuck isn’t about to be fooled by that.

He added: “Glasgow is a team that is probably a lot better than their record shows right now.

“Sterling always seems to put together a tough, hard-working squad.

“EJ Harrison and Gareth Murray will be guys we have to watch out for. They are vets that know the game and can shoot so we’ll have to limit their shots. We’ll also have to keep Daniel Northern off the boards.”

Last time they met:

One Health Sharks Sheffield 62 Glasgow Rocks 52 (BBL Championship, EIS Sheffield, 26/03/2013)

What they say:

Rocks coach Sterling Davis: “We definitely need to work on cutting down the opposition’s runs. We work hard to build momentum but have to make sure the work does not go in vain.

“Atiba has Sheffield playing great basketball right now. They have a pretty balanced team and have proven to be a pretty good defensive team up to this point in the season. We will have to be ready face a tough challenge and take advantage.”

Sharks coach Atiba Lyons: “We understood how poorly we played (in the Cup) and it is a learning experience. We didn’t execute our game plan or take care of the ball. All of which can be corrected.

“Glasgow got a good win on Sunday but almost let a big lead slip. Hard-working and fundamental, Sterling’s teams historically are sharp executing their offense and can spread the floor and really shoot. It will be a tough match for us.”

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