Turner & Gray Call For Atmosphere Repeat
Teesside Lions are back in action this Sunday when they host Newcastle Eagles II at the Eston Arena, with popular Lions duo Theo Turner and Gregor Gray hoping to re-create the incredible atmosphere experienced in their 19pt win over Mohawks in front of 720 fans.
Teesside Lions have no major injury concerns and having already confirmed their place in the playoffs, will be eager to rubber stamp their league title hopes and finish the season in the strongest possible way.
With two home and two away games remaining in the regular season the title is all but theirs. The first challenge however will be a talented Eagles side led by BBL legend Darius Defoe. The Eagles have a number of BBL experienced players and is effectively a reserve/development team for the Tyneside outfit.
The Lions v Eagles games are a popular event with 500 cheering on Teesside as they ended the Eagles 13 game unbeaten streak prior to Covid.
One player familiar with both clubs is former Eagle Gregor Gray who joined the Lions this season and has been a revelation on Teesside. The popular Scot was a member of the Eagles at Eston two years ago and is relishing his new chapter with Lions.
“I remember the game at Eston two years ago and it was an incredible event. The Lions fans were overwhelming and helped their team beat us. Obviously I am now with the Lions and am aware of how powerful the fan effect can be.
“I am really enjoying my basketball on Teesside. We have a strong team and I am confident in our ability to be successful this season, both in the league and playoffs.”
“We have enjoyed good crowds at every game, but the Mohawks game was something special. The atmosphere was incredible, and I am hoping we can have something similar against Newcastle this Sunday.” Said Gray.
Lions team-mate and captain Theo Turner has heaped praise on Gregor adding:
“Gregor has been an incredible addition to the team. His shooting accuracy has been very impressive this season and he’s proven himself as one of our best performers on a consistent basis. He doesn’t just score, he also has a hunger on defence that inspires us all.”
Ahead of the weekend, the 7 foot captain is calling on players and fans to give their all in the final few games to ensure Lions have the edge in the final phase of the season
“I remember the game at Eston two years ago and it was an incredible event. The Lions fans were overwhelming and helped their team beat us. Obviously I am now with the Lions and am aware of how powerful the fan effect can be.
“I am really enjoying my basketball on Teesside. We have a strong team and I am confident in our ability to be successful this season, both in the league and playoffs.”
“We have enjoyed good crowds at every game, but the Mohawks game was something special. The atmosphere was incredible, and I am hoping we can have something similar against Newcastle this Sunday.” Said Gray.
