Last season was one of the best campaigns from the Sheffield Sharks after lifting the BBL cup, reaching the playoff final and challenging for the league title.
Unfortunately, all their hard graft was not enough to see them top the table as Mersey Tigers edged them on the last day of the season. But it is clear that player-coach Atiba Lyons wants more this season, as once again he has put together a strong side.
The Sharks’ biggest headline of the summer was the return of 37 year-old GB international Nate Reinking. After spells in Belgium and Turkey, the sharp shooter will be adopting a coaching role alongside Lyons in what is rumoured to be his final season.
Player Coach Lyons has scouted players from across the league as well as across the pond. He captured Justin Dobbins from Worcester Wolves and two key players from Essex Pirates, Colin Sing and Zach Gachette.
Joining Reinking in the backcourt will be point guard Robert ‘BJ’ Jenkins. Lyons watched the young Murray State University graduate compete in a few summer tournaments and was eager to snap him up after some impressive displays.
This season also sees the return of big man Mike Tuck who averaged 13 points and over 10 rebounds per game last term. With the Sheffield Sharks at full strength this season, the question is can they claim the BBL title this time around?
Roster
One to watch: no doubt all eyes will be on the return of Nate Reinking and his offensive skills but Justin Dobbins is a solid defender and a big force under the basket on offence. He has developed a reputation for being a sensational shot stopper and his offensive stats speak for themselves. Last season he averaged 18 points and 8 rebounds per game.
Player-Coach Atiba Lyons, Forward
Justin Dobbins – Forward
Nate Reinking – Guard/Small Forward
Olu Babalola – Forward
Mike Tuck – Forward
BJ Jenkins – Point Guard
Adrian Anderson – Captain, Guard
Full roster to be finalised soon
Key information
Address:
4 Park Square,
Newton Chambers Road,
Sheffield, S35 2PH
Website: www.sharksbasketball.co.uk
Email: joel.mills@mls.gb.com
Tel: (0114) 257 1994
Venue: English Institute of Sport Sheffield
, Coleridge Road,
Sheffield, S9 5DA
Tickets: Online / Also Available On The Door
