HEAD coach Paul James says it will be a “fantastic feat” if Worcester Wolves can beat Sheffield Sharks, Newcastle Eagles and London Lions in the space of five days.

However, he said the next three games, starting at home to British Basketball League rivals Sheffield tonight (7.30pm), will push his players’ mental resilience to the limit.

Supporters’ focus is likely to be drawn to Sunday’s BBL Trophy semi-final second leg at the University of Worcester Arena (3pm) where Worcester will be attempting to overturn a seven-point deficit.

However, James insisted their league clash against fourth-placed Sheffield was just as important as his side look to strengthen their chances of going far in the play-offs this season.

“It is an incredible weekend with so much going on and so much importance surrounding both games,” Worcester Wolves head coach Paul James said.

“The game against Sheffield is huge because they are fighting with us for third spot effectively.

“They’ve lost seven, we have lost seven, they’re in the Trophy semi-final and so are we. We have also beaten them and they’ve beaten us this season, so there is also the head-to-head on the line tonight.

“It is important for us to finish as high up the table as possible and win as many games as we can, so it is another battle to be had and we have got to focus on that next game before we can look towards Sunday.”

Without guard Josh Cameron following his exit this week, Wolves’ players are set to be tested physically over the next few days but James said their ability to remain mentally strong was key.

“This is what we have been working for all season long and that’s why we have our fantastic strength and conditioning coaches,” said James, whose side also take on London Lions in the BBL at the Copper Box Arena on Tuesday (7.30pm).

“So, as long as they are eating right and rehydrating after games, we will be good to go. If we can come through these next series of games, it will be a fantastic feat as they are all very important and are challenging in different ways.

“The guys have to be prepared mentally as much as anything else.

“We have no doubts about their physical capability as we are a match for anybody as far as our athleticism and physicality are concerned.

“But we have to be mentally tough going into all these games.”