THE key games just keep on coming for Cheshire Jets at the moment as they head to newly-crowned BBL champions Newcastle Eagles tomorrow before hosting the Sheffield Sharks at the Northgate Arena on Sunday (5.30pm).
Eagles coach Fab Flournoy, whose side have managed to just edge the Jets twice this season, was the first to highlight the danger posed by John Lavery’s side as the play-off seedings are decided.
“Cheshire are probably playing the best basketball they have all season,” he said.
“The addition of Kai Williams has clearly helped them, with Nathan Schall and Keith Page now giving them depth off the bench.
“The other four guys have been remarkably consistent over the year and deserve some credit for that.
“Colin O’Reilly in particular has really stepped it up and is playing some of the best basketball in the league.
Eagles’ guard Andrew Bridge emphasised the need for hustle.
He said: “We’ll be looking to limit their penetration, keep them off the boards and then attack the basket and depending on how the game’s called you’d hope to get them in foul trouble.”
The Sharks have not been a potent force this season but can still punish a team and their point guard Ryan Patton is ready for a big game at Northgate Arena that is crucial for both clubs.
“They have talented players, real height and they can score,” he said. “The play-offs is like a new season though and we have to be ready for it, so the two regular season games this weekend are important.”
