Friday 21 March 2014 – Worcester Wolves vs Plymouth University Raiders

Just over a week since their historic BBL Trophy semi-final victory over Sheffield Sharks, the Worcester Wolves get back to the Championship this Friday, (tip off 7.30pm), when they take on the Plymouth University Raiders in the week’s BBL TV game, at the University of Worcester Arena.

“It’s all sinking in now and we’re feeling fantastic,” said Wolves’ head coach Paul James after his side reached a final for the first time since joining the BBL in 2006.

“It’s something we aimed to do this season. It’s one of our goals and now we’ve finally realised that and have the opportunity of winning the first piece of silverware for the club.”

James believes that with the Wolves in such a strong league position, they won’t be distracted by thoughts of the final.

“The focus is well and truly back,” he said. “The guys had a few days’ rest, as we had no game last weekend, so we’re back to it in earnest this week.

“The focus will be on Plymouth this weekend and we know what the situation is with the league and what we have to do.

“It’s still within our grasp and hopefully we won’t have any slip-ups.”

Raiders inflicted the Wolves’ first defeat of the season here in November, but James says his side won’t be out for revenge, they just want a win to keep up the title charge.

“I think we put that one to bed last time we played them, to be honest,” said the Wolves’ play-caller of the Wolves’ 93-63 win at Plymouth in February.

“Hopefully, if we can come out with that intensity, that defensive energy and execution like we had on offence, then we’ll be good.”

Meanwhile Raiders’ coach Jay Marriott remarked: “I think at this current time Worcester are playing like well-oiled machines. Coach James said it himself, he isn’t concerned with revenge fixtures or anything like that, they will be very hungry to put us to the sword and keep track with Newcastle.”