Season So Far – Riders
Riders are currently leading the table with a 10-1 record however Coach Paternostro’s side will be looking to bounce back from their Trophy defeat to London on Thursday. The Riders have already claimed the head to head against Sheffield having beaten both their previous encounters in the Championship. In the recent game came down to the last two plays, Geno Crandall getting it to go in the dying seconds as the Sharks pushed Leicester all the way. Crandall has been a revelation for the Riders with a stat line stuffing 17 points, 5.9 rebounds and 7 assists per game so far and is a key part of another team that builds on defence in order to deliver success. The Riders get an extra day of rest having taken on London in the BBL Trophy on Thursday night and which could mean they may be the fresher side going into Sunday’s Valentine matchup.
Season So Far – Sharks
The Sharks are in good form having defeated Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle in their last 3 games. The Sharks currently have a 7-5 record in the BBL Championship and will be looking to continue to build on their momentum on Sunday afternoon. Sheffield are a well balanced side with multiple scoring options, this was on display on Friday night as they had 5 players score in double figures as they defeated the Eagles by 20. Coach Lyons will be looking for more of the same on Sunday afternoon as the Sharks look to put together 4 consecutive wins in the BBL Championship for the first time this season.
Ones to watch
On. Thursday in London William Lee showed his defensive abilities and why he earned the title of all-time leading shot-blocker at the University of Alabama. He finished the game against the London Lions with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Lee’s ability to both alter and block shots around the basket are a key ingredient to the success of the Riders defence.
Jeremy Hemsley has a key man for the Sharks since his arrival, averaging the most points, assists and steals for the Sharks and proving as to why he and his contribution have been vital assets for the team’s success this season. Even though in their last game against the Eagles he wasn’t as prolific as he normally would be, but he still managed to give 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and will no doubt be a man the Riders will need to slow down on Sunday afternoon.
Previous Meeting
The Riders have the season head-to-head over the Sharks having won by 74-64 back in December and 75-73 a couple of weeks ago. Despite already having won the head to head Riders will be looking to make it 3/3 against the Sharks in the BBL Championship.
How To Watch
Although the game will be behind closed doors, Riders fans will be able to watch the game by purchasing a game pass for just £4.99 from BBL Player.
