WORCESTER Wolves are in a “better position” than in 2014 when they memorably won the British Basketball League play-offs.

That’s the view of head coach Paul James who is “really excited” about his team’s chances of glory heading into their two-legged semi-final against Newcastle Eagles.

Worcester travel to Eagles tonight before tackling them at the University of Worcester Arena on Friday (both 7.30pm).

It is the first time Wolves have reached the last four since James’ side, captained by Alex Owumi, went on to beat Newcastle in the final at the O2 Arena three years ago.

And James believes his current crop, who are blessed with “more scoring ability”, have got all the tools to match that success.

“I am really excited,” James said. “This team are probably better prepared and in a better position to go on and make the final than the team in 2014.

“We have got more scoring ability and are probably a bit better defensively.

“It just comes down to our mind-set as we know we have got all the talent in the team but it is down to how we come out and play on the day.

“We need to be focused, determined and ready to give that mental and physical effort.

“We have done that over the last few months and have played some tremendous basketball at both ends of the floor.”

James also praised his side’s “fight” and “commitment” to see off defending play-off champions Sheffield Sharks in the first round, winning both legs to go through 159-155 on aggregate.

But Wolves’ boss says he is expecting a different type of game against a “quick” Newcastle side who finished the regular season in second place.

“Sheffield battled really well and player-for-player they are very similar to us so it was always going to be tough,” James said.

“Newcastle are a bit smaller and quicker so we are going to have to play a bit differently. But we will let them worry about us.

“We know what we have been doing has worked well for us over the last three or four months and we need to keep doing that.”

Wolves have beaten Newcastle twice this season, including an impressive 126-97 victory at the arena in March.

But James added: “Past records go out of the window. In our last game against them we did certain things which took Newcastle out of their rhythm and every player had a great game.

“If we can go again in these next two games we will have a great chance of getting to the O2.”

Wolves forward Danny Huffor has been named in the BBL’s All Star Five after scoring 48 points overall in the tie against Sheffield.