Play-off preview » Bristol Flyers v Leicester Riders

Facing the Leicester Riders in the semi-finals hardly seems like a fitting reward for knocking out Newcastle Eagles in the Quarter-finals. Leicester are one of the most celebrated teams in BBL history. Riders’ pedigree speaks for itself, this year alone they secured the BBL Championship with a record of 28-5 and won the BBL Trophy. Riders are looking to replicate their incredible achievement of last year and win the triple crown.    

Leicester’s Head Coach Rob Paternostro is arguably one of the best coaches in the BBL. In the last six seasons with Riders, Paternostro has won a mind boggling 11 trophies with the club.

In addition, Coach Rob has got Leicester to be one of the most consistent teams in the league, as Riders have never finished lower than fourth place during his tenure at the helm.

Riders had one of the most successful seasons in BBL history last year, as they won the illustrious triple crown. Riders secured the league title with a record of 27-6, won the BBL Trophy by beating Plymouth Raiders 91-58 and were crowned Play-off winners by defeating Newcastle Eagles 84-63.

After one of Flyers’ best defensive displays in the Quarter-finals, Bristol will have to lift their defensive intensity even higher.

Leicester Riders have a well-balanced offence and the highest scoring bench in the BBL; therefore, Coach K will have to keep an eye on multiple players. However, it is no secret that Riders’ JR Holder is a handful.

The 6’7 American is sure to be integral inside over the course of the semi-finals. Holder had a fantastic 2017/18 campaign, as he averaged 15.6 points per game on 56% shooting. 

Leicester Riders shoot the highest percentage from the field in the BBL with 55.3% of their shots finding the bottom of the net.

Friday's game will be available to watch LIVE online via the league official streaming partner, LiveBasketball.TV

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