The Leicester Riders are back at the Mattioli Arena on Friday, 26th September, as they host the Sheffield Sharks in what’s already shaping up to be an important early-season clash. Both teams are looking to bounce back after opening-game defeats, with the Riders narrowly falling to the London Lions and the Sharks losing on the road to the Bristol Flyers.
Riders Recap: Team Spirit on Display Leads the Charge
There was plenty for Riders fans to take heart from in the season opener. While London edged the contest late on, Leicester Riders showed resilience and flashes of quality across the team.
Flynn Boardman-Raffet made a strong start to the season with 10 points, confidently stepping into his shots, while Spencer Johnson showed his versatility and all round game with 7 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Emmanuel Akot chipped in with 8 points and 3 assists, keeping the Riders’ offence flowing, while big men Duke Shelton and Nate Martin provided hustle and energy on both ends.
Yes, Travis Evee led the scoring with 22 points, but the real story was Leicester’s balance and fight — something they’ll look to build on when they take the court again on Friday night.
Credit: Leicester Riders | Nathan Green
Sharks Looking to Respond
Like Leicester, the Sharks are still chasing their first win of the season after coming up short against the Bristol Flyers. They’ll arrive in Leicester with plenty of threats across the floor.
Jalen DeLoach impressed on debut with 13 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, while Prentiss Nixon showed his experience with 14 points and 5 assists, as well as a couple of steals. Dirk Williams added 12 points and 7 rebounds, but the standout performance came from new signing William Lee, who dominated the glass with 10 rebounds and 3 blocks to go with his 8 points.
Key Matchups to Watch
This clash at the Mattioli Arena promises an intriguing battle between two teams eager to build early-season momentum. For Leicester, Evee’s scoring touch will be crucial against a Sharks defence anchored by Lee’s shot-blocking presence. Meanwhile, Spencer Johnson’s rebounding duel with Dirk Williams could prove pivotal in deciding who controls the tempo on second-chance opportunities.
The backcourt showdown also looks set to entertain, with Nixon’s playmaking and perimeter threat going head-to-head against Leicester’s Akot and Mitchell Jr., who will look to push the pace and create open looks for their teammates.
Credit: Leicester Riders | Nathan Green
Game Details
- Fixture: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
- Date: Friday, 26th September
- Tip-Off: 7:30pm
- Venue: Mattioli Arena, Leicester
Final Word
With the Cavalry crowd behind them, the Riders will be determined to bounce back and secure their first win of the season. Against a Sheffield side that showed balance and defensive strength in their opener, Leicester’s fight, spirit, and attacking talent will be tested once again in what promises to be an exciting clash.
Tickets on sale HERE
