Basketball: Bears snatch the initiative from Sharks in title chase
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Eleven games to go and Brighton Bears will be unstoppable in pursuit of their first BBL Championship title since moving from Worthing as long as they keep winning, starting at home to Thames Valley Tigers tonight.
The balance of power shifted on Thursday when the defending champions, Sheffield Sharks, lost 96-89 at home to Newcastle Eagles - their third defeat in eight days - to complete a slide from top spot.
Brighton's eventually unsuccessful campaign in Europe's Uleb Cup has left them hardened and too aggressive for most opponents, with Jason Siemon, 6ft 9in, Andrew Alleyne and Kendrick Warren, both 6ft 8in, Tom Frederick at 6ft 7in and the 6ft 5in duo Rico Alderson and Sullivan Phillips providing power and accuracy around the basket.
Michael Brown and the former England international Yorick Williams control the backcourt and ensure the scoring opportunities are spread around. Significantly, only two Bears are in the top 20 scorers, but their four tallest players are among the 20 most accurate shooters.
The EBL Division One club Worthing Thunder, who replaced the Bears at their former home, are also chasing glory when they play Sutton Pumas in the National Trophy final today at University College, Worcester.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
37Comments