Sheffield Sharks return to BBL action against Plymouth Raiders live on Sky Sports

Both teams are tied on 22 points in the league standings but Plymouth in fifth have suffered two fewer defeats than the Sharks one place below them, who have also played two more matches.

It will be the first fixture in two weeks for Atiba Lyons’s Sharks, who had a blank schedule last weekend following their home double header against Worcester Wolves and Bristol Flyers earlier this month.

“It's been a long time since we just had a chance to work on our own stuff and work on stuff that might have got away from us in that time,” said Lyons of the break.

“It will give us a chance to go back and fix some things.”

Friday’s match is the beginning of another busy period with back-to-back games next weekend starting against fourth-placed London Lions on Friday before the Sharks host league leaders Leicester Riders the following day.

Their record for the season to date is 11-10, which includes wins over both Lions and Riders. Meanwhile, tonight’s opponents have won 11 and lost eight.

The teams have met twice already this season, in January, with one win apiece, but Sheffield have been victorious on their last three visits to Devon.

Just four points separate the sides in positions two through to seven with nine games left to play.

Tonight’s game will be shown live on Sky Sports Mix, with coverage starting at 7pm.

Tip-off is 7.30pm.