Sheffield Sharks and Sheffield Hatters bring back experienced British players

Experience and an understanding of how Atiba Lyons wants his team to play are behind the Sheffield Sharks’ decision to bring 37-year-old Mike Ochereobia back for a third season.

The veteran British centre averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in a bit-part role last season.

Ochereobia - a former Surrey, Plymouth and Cheshire player - said: “I’m delighted to be returning to Sheffield again for the new season.

“I have really enjoyed my time here so it’s a great feeling to be back. The fans in Sheffield are fantastic, and playing in front of them again will be a privilege.”

Sharks head coach Lyons said: “Mike has a huge amount of experience that will be great to have in our locker room again for this coming season.

“He understands what it means to play for this club and how I expect my teams to play. I’m looking forward to having Mike return this season.”

Sheffield Hatters - who won all four trophies last season - have re-signed 27-year-old British guard Jess Eadsforth-Yates after she made a successful contribution of 8.5 points, 4.8 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game following her arrival in mid-season.

Eadsforth-Yates said: “I really enjoyed my time here last season. It was amazing to be a part of all of the success we had; winning all four trophies on offer was an unbelievable feat.”