More praise for “incredible” Hardy

If Leicester are going to muscle in on Newcastle’s march to the BBL Championship title, forward Ayron Hardy will no doubt have something to do with it.

The 23-year-old recorded 20 points, 15 rebounds and 13 assists against Sheffield last weekend, following up from 13 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists the week before against Glasgow.

An in-form Hardy together with Great Britain captain Drew Sullivan – who definitely knows what it takes to win silverware in the BBL – could be key to Leicester’s push for the top.

They face Newcastle on Friday in the first of three meetings which could have a big say on who wrestles the trophy away from last year’s winners, Mersey Tigers.

Riders coach Rob Paternostro said: “Ayron Hardy was incredible!

“When is the last time a player in the BBL produced back-to-back triple doubles? He is a complete basketball player who is willing to do anything to help the team win.

“It’s been a remarkable season for him so far, and he continues to get better everyday. All you have to do is come to one of our practices and watch how he competes, he has been a pleasure to work with.”

Earlier this week, team-mate Bradd Wierzbicki put Hardy’s name forward for the coveted MVP award at the end of the season.