KADIRI Richard will turn up the aggression to help patched-up Newcastle Eagles stay out in front in the BBL title race, writes MARK DOUGLAS.
After a fortnight’s break the Eagles return to action this weekend to take on Plymouth Raiders in a game that could prove pivotal to their hopes of clinching a hat-trick of titles.
And Richard – nicknamed the Terminator during his time with Worthing Thunder last season – is eager to point out that the two-week break was not spent relaxing. Instead the squad were working tirelessly on incorporating new arrival Reggie Jackson into a team that will be a quicker, more mobile unit.
“We will definitely be a different team now. With Joe and Fab out we’re completely changed,” he said.
“That is two of our biggest defensive players out so of course things will be a bit different for us. But we’re doing well – we’re working hard to make up for it.
“And of course Reggie brings a lot to the table. He’s a quick, explosive player – he’s got a nice pull-up and his pick and roll is excellent. Plus he’s an hard worker.
“Personally, I have to make changes in my game as well, particularly from a defensive aspect. I like to challenge for stops and blocks but I can’t go chasing everything. I need to be more aggressive but it needs to be controlled aggression as well.
“And I know I have to watch foul trouble. I can’t be going into the second quarter with two fouls on the board – I need to pick my moments a bit more and I need to help with the production as well.”
Richard admits the Eagles cannot afford to drop their guard against a Plymouth side that are “dangerous” opponents. With the high-profile scalp of the Mersey Tigers already under their belt, he knows they can cause problems for Newcastle.
“They are a good team,” he said.
“I know Ev (Lithuanian guard Evaldas Zabas) really well from playing with him at Worthing and he’s a good shooter and explosive in the half court.
“They are a team that will punish you if you take them lightly, and we have to perform with intensity and professionalism.”
Meanwhile, the Eagles’ trip to the Mersey Tigers on Monday has been postponed indefinitely due to the home side’s continued financial troubles. They are struggling to find a venue for home games and may look to put the game back until April.
