B.Braun Sheffield Sharks host Bristol Flyers in the British Basketball League on Sunday in the first of three meetings within the space of a month.
Form-wise, the two sides are at opposite sides of the spectrum, with Sheffield in good form, winning four of their last five encounters, whereas Bristol is currently in a slump, having lost four of their previous five.
A chance for the hosts to continue their rich vein of form against a side desperate to rekindle their form from last season, which saw them record a club-best 25-11 mark for third place overall.
Despite the form, both teams currently sit in the top four, with Sheffield third and Bristol fourth.
In the one meeting the Flyers and Sharks have had this season on 6 October, Bristol escaped with the win 67-65 in a physical contest.
And it promises to be more of the same in South Yorkshire for round two.
That’s because the two teams, despite their different basketball styles, are in the bottom three for points per game, with the Sharks posting 78.9 points and the Flyers faring slightly better at 80.3.
Bristol needs to get off to a Flyer
With contrasting styles, Bristol must play their fast-paced brand of basketball against a Sheffield side that likes to wear you down defensively and draw you into their style of play.
In their one previous meeting this season, Te’jon Lucas led the Flyers with 16 points; however, they won’t be able to count on him on Sunday as he is out for at least another four weeks with a hamstring injury.
So Bristol will look to Tevin Olison, who leads the team with 16 points a game, and Kedrian Johnson, who is just a little behind on 13.7, to speed up the tempo and make Sheffield uncomfortable.
Sharks settling into new waters
The Sharks had to wait nearly a month until they were able to swim in their new arena, but they have kept their head above water so far.
In the six games played at the fantastic new Canon Medical Arena, Sheffield is 5-1 so far.
One player enjoying his surroundings right now is Jalon Pipkins, who leads the team with a shade under 14 points a game, shooting a stellar 54.6% from the field and 42.9% from range.
Head coach Atiba Lyons will want his side to keep their momentum and play the same brand of basketball that has them currently in third place in the British Basketball League standings.
With the new season here, you can still get your British Basketball fix by following the League on social media or heading to our YouTube channel to relive all of the best moments from the current season.
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