Basketball: Tigers face tough early test in Cup

NOTHING HIGHLIGHTS the gulf between the Budweiser League and the National League in starker contrast than the line-up for the Sainsbury's Classic Cola National Cup.

Devoid of any potential giant-killings, the only sense of shock is perhaps felt by the holders, Thames Valley Tigers, who have to face London Towers as early as the first round tonight.

Only three National League clubs, Stevenage, Plymouth and Teeside, were added to the 13 Budweiser clubs for a first round of eight ties. The English Basketball Association no longer indulges the pretence of elimination rounds, only to serve up the survivors as little more than fodder at the first real hurdle.

Plymouth have already bitten the dust, losing 100-68 at home to Greater London Leopards two weeks ago, indicative of what happens when National League teams face line-ups loaded with experienced Americans and full- time players.

With Birmingham Bullets and Sheffield Sharks certain to take care of Stevenage and Teeside, league form points to Derby Storm, Newcastle Eagles and Manchester Giants also reaching the last eight.

The Tigers' tie with Towers and Chester Jets' visit to Leicester City Riders promise some uncertainty, if not outright shocks, but Paul James, the Tigers' coach, is cautious: "I do not feel that we are playing well."

Leicester's coach, Dave Harris, will also be cautious, despite a 96-78 League win at Chester three weeks ago. The Jets added Shawn Hartley and Prentice McGruder to their roster last week to complete a full-strength line up for the first time this season, and ended a seven-game losing streak at Milton Keynes.