Excitement is building on Teesside ahead of the first official competition game in 19 months as the area welcomes Division 2 outfit Derbyshire Arrows this Sunday to the Eston Arena in round two of the National Cup.

The Arrows will be a difficult foe and are currently plying their trade one division higher than Lions, but Teesside are feeling confident in their own ability and are desperate to enjoy a good cup run.

The news of new signing Ross Wilson has raised some eyebrows with the athletic 6’7 forward committing to Teesside ahead of a host of other suitors. Wilson is regarded as one of the best players to come out of the North-East.

Ross is a versatile and very athletic player who will entertain the crowd with his array of skills and dunking ability. Originally from Newcastle, he has represented England and played for elite American College basketball team Rice University who are a top NCAA D1 team in Houston, Texas.

The calibre of this signing is testament to the club’s ambitions and the game on Sunday will hopefully be a great game for the neutral and if Ross has his way a good win for Teesside.

The 27 year old said: “I am excited to come back to the North East and sign for Teesside. The club are really ambitious and the events they host are exciting not only for the fans, but also for us players.

“The team has some great players and I am looking forward to joining what should be an exciting and successful club.

“Marc is one of the best coaches in the game and helped me develop as a junior so I am really pleased to be playing under him again. It will be a nice experience as we have both enjoyed successful careers since the u18 European Championships in 2011 and the opportunity to reunite is an exciting one.”

Derbyshire are a solid team with more than 20 years experience as a National League club playing for most of their time in Division Two and One. The team have a host of talented players led by club stalwart James Kelly, and will be wary of Lions promise but also keen to prove their status as the higher division outfit.

Teesside still have a lot to prove and with this being the first official competition game and some of the answers may be delivered.

Teesside Lions v Derbyshire Arrows

Sunday 10th October | 2.30pm Tip

– Doors open 1.30pm with music, snacks and entertainment.
– Spectators must be seated 30mins prior to tip

Tickets Prices

– Adult £6.50
– U18 & OAP £4.50
– Family £16 (2 adults & 2 u18)

Tickets must be purchased in advance to allow the club to cater for the attendance in accordance with venue & government covid guidelines.