The Worcester Wolves travel to the Copper Box Arena this Friday at 7:30pm to take on the London Lions.
Previously, the capital city side won their last encounter with the seventh-placed Wolves in convincing fashion, thanks to an 88-72 victory in Worcester. This Friday, the Lions will aim to defend their court with another impressive performance.
Consistency
The home side have hit a positive run of form to start the new year, winning four out of their last five fixtures. Currently fourth in the BBL Championship standings, the east London-based outfit will be eager to climb up the table, with just a couple of wins off the third-placed Glasgow Rocks.
For Vince Macaulay’s men, it will be important to keep the momentum going for point-guard Justin Robinson – if healthy, who is amongst the league leaders in points per game.
Recipe For Success
On the floor, an aggressive start on offence early will help the Lions set the pace of the game with the momentum carrying through to the defensive side of the floor. However, with injuries across the Lions team, it is important for other players to step up and make up for the productivity they will be missing.
Ball movement is also a key to a well flowing offence, and the tenants at the Olympic Park will look to pass the rock well throughout the game; keeping the defence on their toes, second guessing the offence, and ultimately, leading to shooters being open for high percentage looks.
The Lions’ last game saw a close 85-82 victory away at second place Newcastle Eagles. It stands as an encouraging win for the London team, and so they should have enough to gain a comfortable lead and close things out before the end of the fourth quarter against the visiting Wolves.
Peel Is Integral
On an individual level, Brandon Peel could prove to be a difference maker after posting a dominant double-double against Newcastle – scoring 21 points and grabbing a game-high 15 rebounds. The Lions should look to feed the big man early and stay dominant on the glass – keeping plays alive and forcing second chance buckets.
A win at the Copper Box Arena would give a much-needed boost heading into a stretch of three straight games against the league leading Leicester Riders who have initiated a gap at the top.
