Sheffield Sharks star eyes BBL Championship winners medal

North American import Antwon Lillard has been largely housebound since arriving in England in September, owing to coronavirus restrictions, and has yet to experience playing in front of crowds in this country.

Still, that hasn’t stopped him from producing some fine form on the court and the 25-year-old small forward from Cleveland, Ohio picked up the BBL Player of the Month award for February.

He said: “It was a good feeling just to let me know that the work is paying off. To get that was a humbling experience.

"I’ve just been staying patient, letting the game slow down and come to me. I have also had a few meetings with Atiba (Lyons). Having those conversations and watching films, it helps my game a lot."

Second year professional Lillard played in the Canadian NBL last season and won the division’s Rookie of the Year award.

On his aims for this season, he said: "Just to bring to the team everything I have got, defensively and offensively. Most importantly, I want to win the (BBL) Championship.

"I am here to win, that’s the most important thing on my mind.”

The Sharks last won the Play Offs in the 2015/16 season. They are currently sixth in the BBL with a 10-9 record, having beaten four of the five teams above them – including league leaders Leicester Riders and current champions London Lions.

Atiba Lyons’ team were narrowly beaten by Cheshire Phoenix – one place above them - last time out.

Lillard, who lives in Hillsborough with team mates and fellow Americans Kipper Nichols and Jordan Ratinho, added: "We know we can play with any team in this league, we have beaten some of the biggest teams in the league. We showed it now it’s about being consistent.

“As a team we have come a long way, I feel like we are all on the same page and we have a great opportunity to be special and win the Championship. It’s just all about putting that work in.”

The Sharks host Worcester Raiders on Friday night before another home match against Bristol Flyers on Sunday.