TEESSIDE v NORTHAMPTON | PREVIEW

by Jordan Clarke

The Teesside Lions return home after a short Christmas break to welcome the Northamptonshire Titans to Eston Arena in a must win game for Lions, if they are to keep ambitions of reaching the playoffs alive.

Teesside are eager to bounce back after the short-handed Lions fell short at the hands of Myerscough with a scoreline of 98-66. This was the biggest defeat of the season. A positive from the loss was 16-year-old Lions youngster Ben Grimes hitting two three’s in only his second competitive appearance for the club.

This weekend’s visitors Northamptonshire currently sit one place above the Lions in the standings, with a record of 3-8. This is the first time the two sides have met this season.

The Titans emerged victorious in their most recent game; a 73-72 home win against the Worcester Wolves, which will generate positive momentum heading into this weekend’s game.

The Titans have some talented players among their squad led by Gibraltarian guard Tim Fava & big man Abdul Omonayajo.

Flava leads the way in scoring for the visitors, averaging 22 points per game across his first nine games of the season, alongside 2 steals per game.

6’10 Omonayajo is averaging a near double-double with 8 points per game and 10 rebounds. He is a mobile big with good hands capable of steals and blocks.

The real excitement for Teesside fans will be the debuts of two new signings with the experienced 6’6 forward Jamie Glen and 6’1” guard Faaris Mughal.

Glen brings his British Basketball League experience to Teesside, with the former Newcastle Eagle joining the club from Division One’s Newcastle University.

Glen is a phenomenal and versatile player who hit 21pts against London Capitals as a youngster in the BBL. He enjoyed a sparkling career at Northumbria University and has represented England U18 earning MVP in a big win over Portugal in the Cherbourg Tournament.

Mughal joins the Lions from TMG Prep Academy over in the United States, where his prolific scoring has caught the eye.

Upon his arrival in Teesside, the former Birmingham Rocket, Mughal, said:

"I am looking forward to joining the Lions and helping the team reach new heights. I will bring energy and another scoring threat to Teesside.

"The club has a great setup and I can't wait to get on the Eston Arena floor."

Tickets are available now at just £6.50 for adults and £4.50 for U18’s, enjoy the family orientated entertainment on show and support the Lions climb into the playoffs!

Teesside Lions v Northamptonshire Titans

Sunday 7 January 2024

14:30 Tip | Doors 13:30

Eston Arena, Middlesbrough, TS6 9AE

£6.50 adults, £4.50 U18’s and can be purchased in advance via TeessideLions.com