Friday Fever

It’s been a tough season so far for Team Northumbria, but head coach Chris Bunten is still eyeing up silverware as the WBBL Trophy tips-off this weekend.

In what’s looking like a really tough Northern Pool, Northumbria are ready to face Nottingham Wildcats on Sunday.

“Following the success of the WBBL and BBL Cup Finals, it helps to put the women’s game on the map and so the chance to play in a big sold out venue like the Barclaycard Arena or the Emirates Arena for the Trophy is a dream come true for any player,” said the play-caller.

“The geographical split of the Trophy sees three of the top teams in Manchester, Nottingham and Sheffield in the North Group with ourselves and Caledonia Pride.

“We aren’t in the top trio due to a tough season with player eligibility and injuries – although I feel we’re still a very tough team to face.

“Whoever finishes first and second in the North Group will probably meet in the Final and the good thing about having such a competitive pool is if you can prove yourself during the qualifying stages and take that confidence forward.”

Bunten continued, “We are excited to play Nottingham off the back of two great performances against Leicester and Sheffield. But unfortunately, we have suffered a season-ending injury to our fantastic sharp shooter Chloe Bully.

“This season has been testing for myself and players in different ways. We haven’t had a fully fit team for any games and this will continue for the rest of the season.

“This being said, it’s been my most enjoyable season as the group we have are selfless and have not let all the adversity affect them. They are all a joy to coach and are such a tight-knit group.

“Meanwhile players like Jodie Tucker and Sarah Birkett have really shown how far they have come since starting the programme and I also believe this is down to the atmosphere created by our leaders with their hard work and commitment.

“We also have great support staff who work around the clock and together, I feel Northumbria players are constantly improving all elements of their game.

“As a coach, my main job is to ensure women’s basketball in the UK continues to improve,” concluded Bunten.

Before Wildcats face Northumbria, they will entertain Westfield Health Sheffield Hatters on Saturday, while Sevenoaks Suns entertain Barking Abbey Crusaders in the South Group.

Suns then travel to Leicester Riders for another Trophy match-up on Sunday, with Caledonia Pride hosting recently crowned WBBL Cup winners Manchester Mystics and Oaklands Wolves welcoming Cardiff Met Archers.