Sheffield Sharks reveal recruitment strategy for 2026/27 Super League Basketball campaign

The South Yorkshire club had too many ball players last season and not enough athletes willing to do the dirty work.

They have already begun their recruitment for the forthcoming season with the re-signing of Donovan Clay, a powerful forward who can dominate the glass at both ends of the court.

Guard Adrian Delph, a new face for Sharks fans, was announced as the second player for the roster on Wednesday night and another returning player who gives them a presence on both ends of the court is expected to be announced on Saturday.

Chief executive Sarah Backovic - who also runs the Sheffield Hatters who had a hugely-successful season by contrast - said: “We want a certain mentality and to try to create a winning culture on both sides of the arena, not just the women.

“There’ll be some changes on both teams, and naturally on the men’s side it’s probably more radical than on the women’s, although there will be some surprises on the women’s side.

“But I think our approach this season from the Sharks perspective is to pull together a strong defensive side which is traditional for Atiba (Lyons - head coach), which he had moved slightly away from.

“So we’re going back to basics somewhat there. We want a hungry team of winners.

“I don’t think there are any rookies on the team, we just want a very solid, focused performance.”

The re-signing of 25-year-old, 6ft 8in, Clay - a favourite of Lyons in the few months he spent with the club in the 24/25 campaign - was a big part of the recruitment process that Sharks were keen to get done quickly.

“With the Donovan return that’s enabled us to change up quite substantially what we want to do,” continued Backovic.

“Donovan has a lot of respect for Atiba which is why he’s come back. He was well paid out in Japan, but he wanted to adjust his game and believes Atiba can help him do that. That’s very complimentary to Atiba and our club.”