Sheffield Sharks head coach Atiba Lyons makes BBL Play Offs prediction

The Sharks are in sixth place with nine games of the regular season left to play, having never failed to qualify for the end-of-season event under Lyons.

A double header last weekend saw them recover from the disappointment of losing by just one point to Worcester Wolves on Friday, having led with 6.5 seconds remaining, to beat Bristol Flyers 82-79 two days later.

Lyons said: “This season because games are coming so quickly you don't have a chance to get too down and linger on it. We feel we rectified it with Sunday's result.

“We are still trying to find that form where we are all hitting on the same cylinder, but I think we are getting there.”

The Sharks’ record for the season currently stands at 11-10. Plymouth Raiders, one place above them on points difference, are up next on March 26 following a blank weekend.

Just two points separate the Sharks from Newcastle Eagles in second, although they have played more games than several teams above and below them.

Lyons said: “I think every team is there or thereabouts, we just have to keep playing to the finish line and see where we finish.

“We want to win the play-offs but first and foremost we have to secure a spot. It's still so close.”

Play Off champions in the 2015/16 season, they have beaten some of the leagues strongest sides this season, including leaders Leicester Riders and current champions London Lions, but have struggled for consistency.

“It's a sign we have a talented roster,” Lyons added. “We are capable of beating anybody but probably a little bit of youth sometimes we might play up to standings a little too much. With the roster we have, playing in front of fans would probably give us another 10 points a game.

“We have got a lot of guys that are big game players, it bodes well if we can keep going. If we get a chance at the championships I like the team's chances. We definitely know when we have those top, top clubs our energy is better.”

One of the stars of this season’s roster has been North American import Antwon Lillard, who made the tough decision to leave behind his wife and 10-month-old daughter Gianna to play in the UK.

“Antwon is a very strong, physical player, he's a big guard,” Lyons said. “I'm glad I signed him this year, he's a great personality, great locker room attitude. That's all you want at this level.

“He's just been getting better and better. With his attitude and work ethic I think he's got a high ceiling.”

Lillard, 25, added: “It’s been very challenging being away from them every night, there will be good days and challenging days.

"My family don’t miss a game. It’s definitely hard but just having that support from them makes it easier. I just want to play basketball as long as I can.”

The BBL Play Off final is currently scheduled for 16 May at London’s O2 Arena. It remains to be seen whether it will be rearranged to allow crowds to watch, with audiences allowed from 17 May.