Preview: Worcester Wolves v Bristol Flyers

All the key information on Friday’s BBL opponents can be found below.

WORCESTER WOLVES
After having the most successful season in franchise history in 2013/14, the Wolves found themselves unable to defend their BBL Trophy and Play-Off crown last year. Head Coach Paul James frequently admitted his team never quite found the spark they needed last season. The 2015/16 campaign marks a new era for the Wolves, having released all but one player from last year’s squad, including captain Alex Owumi who was such a driving force in their success and rise to prominence in the league.

COACH
Paul James – A former professional player, James was appointed Head Coach of the Guildford Heat in the summer of 2005. In just three seasons, Coach James led the new franchise to fifth place in its rookie season and BBL League and Cup double in 2006/07. James coached his Heat side in the prestigious ULEB cup competition against the likes of DKV Juventut, KK Bosna, Alba Berlin, Turk Telekom and Siauliai, gaining tremendous european experience, before being appointed Head Coach of the Worcester Wolves in December 2009.

ONE TO WATCH
Malik Smith – The 6ft 2in guard provides leadership in the backcourt, and has a great pedigree from playing with Iowa Energy in the NBA Development League. Smith previously attended Florida International University, where he averaged 14 points, three rebounds, and three assists per game, before transferring to Minnesota University, where his numbers were equally as impressive.

OFFICIALS
Taking charge of Friday’s game will be Steve Ellis, Mac Callender and Paul Unsworth.

LAST TIME OUT
Worcester Wolves bounced back from last season’s BBL Trophy exit with a comfortable 74-48 home win against the Flyers.

DID YOU KNOW?
Bristol Flyers fell to the Worcester Wolves during pre-season, in a behind-closed-doors fixture by just one point, where Perris Blackwell was able to score the tip-in on the buzzer, 75-76