An injury-free season could end in silverware for Sheffield Sharks

Preparations for the new campaign continue with a pre-season fixture against Manchester Giants at the EIS on Friday following Wednesday’s 76-64 win at Manchester Magic.

“We’re really excited about this season” said Tuck. “Management has done a great job in putting together the pieces. Last season, although we finished fourth in the league, we didn’t bring home any silverware - so that was disappointing. I think we can make a really good run at it this year. Hopefully we don’t run into any injuries, if we don’t then this can be a really good team to start the season with.”

Sharks get their 2017/18 season underway on 29 September with a home fixture against Surrey Scorchers, with Sharks fans also being given another look at the new side at the inaugural BBL All-Stars tournament, which is being held at the O2 Arena in London on 24 September.

Tuck said: “We have a great mix of experience and youth and guys that are really hungry to prove themselves. “It’s been exciting through the pre-season so far, we had a great training camp and it’s been very competitive. Everyone has a good attitude and a winning mentality, and myself and a couple of the older guys have set the tone so the younger guys know what’s expected of them.”