Sharks oh so close in All Stars final

The B. Braun Sharks continued to gain plaudits in this fledgling basketball season with the runners-up spot in the All Stars Championship at London’s Copperbox Arena.

Atiba Lyons’ men thrilled and delighted throughout the annual competition, just falling short in the final against the home favourites, London Lions.

The day began with a 40-24 defeat to the Lions. That proved to be a major wake-up call to the Sharks who were dominant in taking down Surrey Scorchers by a tournament record 21-52 in the second game. London City Royals were the Sharks next victims by 26-37. The semi-finals saw a 25-37 success over Leicester Riders with Mackey McKnight’s ten point shot being controversially downgraded to a mere six in the powerplay.

McKnight did successfully register a confirmed five pointer in the final, ironically against London Lions, but the Sharks fell just short at 33-39.

Nick Lewis was a serious contender for MVP of the tournament and there were other terrific performances from Connor Cashaw and Mackey McKnight as the Sharks fully embraced the entertainment aspect of the annual showpiece.

The Sharks can be rightfully proud of their final reaching efforts in front of the national Sky TV cameras and will look to continue their thrilling journey back in the BBL Cup North group stage on Friday as they travel to Newcastle Eagles.

Next home game

B. Braun Sharks v Newcastle Eagles, Friday 25th October 2019, Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, 7.30pm Tip Off.

Ticket Link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/b-braun-sheffield-sharks-v-newcastle-eagles-cup-group-stage-tickets-70783121221

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Andy Chubb