WBBL TIPS OFF
The 2017-18 WBBL Championship tips off this weekend with two teams picking up where they left off last May.
Nottingham Wildcats welcome Sevenoaks Suns to Wildcats Arena, in a rematch of last year’s the WBBL Play-Off Final.
The Suns came out on top the last time the two teams met but confidence is high in Nottingham. Reigning WBBL MVP Ashley Harris is keen for her side to utilise WBBL Play-Off Final heartbreak, as added motivation, as Wildcats seek to begin their Championship defence in the best possible manner.
“Last year’s game at The O2 will be in the back of my mind, as will the game against Northumbria two years ago,” declared Harris.
“You definitely have to use those moments as motivation.
“But it’s a new year and a new team. Right now I think it’s important to take one game at a time and to continue to learn how to play with one another.
“Sevenoaks have come back strong, adding some impressive talent over the summer. The result this weekend will come down to whoever can take care of the ball and out-hustle the opponent.”
Sevenoaks surprised many this summer having fought off a number of leading WBBL clubs to add Hungarian star Judit Fritz.
“I`m very much looking forward to a new challenge in my fourth year in the league,” said Fritz.
“I still see my role as being a team player and a true competitor. That won’t change.
“Coach Busch has put together a great team of talented individuals. It will be fun to see what this team is capable of this season.”
The first three fixtures will come tomorrow as Oaklands Wolves host Cardiff Met Archers to open proceedings. Before newcomers Durham Palantinates travel to Westfield Health Sheffield Hatters to make their Championship debut in what promises to be a testing introduction.
Meanwhile Sunday will see BA London Lions take on the visiting Leicester Riders. The travelling side will look to build on their best ever league finish of second place last season.
At the same time, at Sport Central, Manchester Mystics visit Team Northumbria with GB forward Chantelle Handy making her domestic debut for the hosts.
Pic: Mansoor Ahmed
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