Sheffield Sharks continue to display killer instinct with SLB Cup triumph but they are not finished yet.

Winning their first trophy of the new Super League Basketball era, Sheffield Sharks put on an impressive display to prevent a heroic Surrey 89ers team from causing an upset.

Sheffield’s strength in depth was showcased for all to witness as three players ended the game on 20+ points – Rickey McGill (24 points), Prentiss Nixon (24 points) and Donovan Clay (23 points).

Nixon and Clay have become one of the most feared partnerships in all of Super League Basketball – scoring 16.2 and 15 points per game respectively.

However, it will be the duo’s ability to step up on the biggest of occasions that will have the Sharks’ fanbase optimistic that the inaugural SLB Championship will land in Sheffield with Donovan Clay sinking an efficient 60% of his shots during the final.

Rodney Chatman III is another weapon in a loaded arsenal for the side as he leads the team in several areas – averaging 18.3 points, 5.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game.

Despite tallying such effective numbers, it should be noted that he has been involved in less games than the previously mentioned stars as he has been side lined due to a knee injury.

Nevertheless, it highlights how formidable of an opponent Sheffield can be, even when they are not at full strength.

Back to reality

All focus will now turn to their assault on the regular season standings.

Sheffield Sharks currently sit second in the division with 15 wins and 4 losses – only London Lions are currently higher but have played three more games.

With their participation in the playoffs being inevitable, gaining a psychological edge could be vital in Sheffield’s bid to become British basketball champions.

Being victorious in the SLB Cup will provide confidence in knockout situations, although their inability to defeat the Lions on two occasions this year will be a cause for concern.

The Sharks will have two opportunities to correct this before the season comes to a close, with the final meeting between the sides coming in their last fixture of the year.

It could be argued that this Sheffield side are now a different animal on both sides of the ball. They have established a chemistry and a swagger on offense that London has not faced in the entirety of this campaign.

Star players have now come to the realisation that they can takeover games from the word “go” and these star players are not performing to their usual high level, another can step up in their place.

Sheffield Sharks are now Super League Basketball’s deadliest predator. The league need to be on red-alert when the post-season finally arrives.