BBL ChampionshipHead Coach of the Essex Pirates, Tim Lewis, is generally pleased with his side's results and progression in the league so far, and warns that 'anything can happen', when talking about his side's chances against the Newcastle Eagles on Sunday evening: 'Newcastle are a good team, well experienced and well coached by Fab (Fabulous Flournoy)' said the Team GB Under 20 coach. 'They pose a real threat inside and out which makes them a hard team to prepare for – but that's what makes this a great league to be coaching in, a different scenario each week' he added '(Newcastle) are a veteran team with depth and experience in all positions. They are always going to be well prepared, so we can expect a tough game. We are getting better every game with practice twice a day, 6 days a week, games permitting – so you never know what could happen!'

Switching to BBL Cup action on Sunday and the Cheshire Jets will look to secure their place in the second round, as they travel to Kelvin Hall to face the Glasgow Rocks. Player-coach of the Rocks, Sterling Davis, commented on the game: 'It will be another big test for us' he said: 'Cheshire have a lot of experience on their side which is invaluable. I think Chez Marks will continue to be a force for the Jets. He's a proven scorer so we will have to be ready to try and contain him' he added.

Also in action are PAWS London Capital, Worthing Thunder, Sheffield Sharks and Airwaves Plymouth Raiders, as they all look for vital early-season wins in the BBL Championship. Despite the Capital slipping to a 2-31 record last term, the Thunder only narrowly hold the head-to-head between the two sides at 3-2, and they are likely be without imports Sherrad Prezzie Blue and Reggie Bratton. They will put their injury nightmares to one side for their home game the previous night though, which will be sponsored by Orchid, a male cancer charity, as one of the BBL's newest franchise use basketball to raise funds for a worthy cause. The Sharks meanwhile, have won seven straight games, and face the Raiders, who look for their first BBL Championship win. According to Sheffield play caller Atiba Lyons however, the Raiders are still a team to be reckoned with in this league. He said: 'On Sunday we go down to Plymouth and they have a huge home court advantage. Any coach will tell you that if your team plays anything but their best, it is rare that teams walk away from the Pavilions with a win. I have seen them play and they are a very talented team, and a strong defensive performance is vital for victory.'

Source: www.bbl.org.uk