Basketball: Leeds set new record, but Sharks beaten

Neither side shot the ball brilliantly, but Force were able to gain the upper hand in other areas, such as rebounding, turnovers and steals, to put themselves in the position to win.

Rob Marsden was one of the players to enjoy a positive shooting performance, going 9-of-14 from the floor on his way to a game-high 21 points.

D’Andre Bullard connected on three triples in the first quarter before finishing with 15 and Kwan Waller added 16.

Christian Behrens started the game well on the offensive end for Scorchers, but with a short rotation, his efficiency began to suffer and he finished with 13 points, a tally matched by Elvisi Dusha.

Sheffield Sharks were unable to prevent Newcastle Eagles make this their best-ever start to a Championship season, going down 87-78.

The all-conquering Eagles’ previous best was an 8-1 record through nine games, but 21 points from Scott Martin, 20 from Rahmon Fletcher and another 19 from Charles Smith off the bench made it nine wins from nine.

Antone Robinson impressed once again for Atiba Lyons’ side with a 21-point, 10-rebound double-double as Jerrold Brooks had 10 points and 10 assists.

But Eagles’ efficiency and depth were the difference.