Raiders look to prolong Newcastle wait

Newcastle could become BBL league champions tonight as nearest rivals Plymouth travel to Leicester.

The Raiders had been threatening to catch the Eagles, who have been top for virtually the whole season, but a defeat against lowly Guildford Heat at the weekend has halted their charge.

They now face a tricky trip to the John Sandford Centre, with the Riders looking to secure second spot themselves.

Leicester head into the game in fourth spot with a 19-7 record while Plymouth are third with 20 wins from 26 games and are the only team who can prevent Eagles winning the title.

Raiders have come out on top in the two meetings between the teams this season, both of which were at Plymouth Pavilions, winning 84-62 in December and 93-81 at the start of this month.

Riders coach Rob Paternostro said: “Plymouth have had a great year, Gavin has done a very good job with them, they have weapons from anywhere on the court and have shown the ability to stay in games even when there not at their best, last time we played they did a good job of finishing in the paint, we will have to do a better job of limiting their opportunities to get good shots.”