WORCESTER Wolves are targeting a top four place in their second season in the National Basketball League Division One.

Although their start to the season this evening has been delayed, as the Coventry Crusaders stadium failed the safety requirements, Wolves hope to entertain Leicester Riders next Sunday (4pm), in a friendly to officially start the new season.

With the National Trophy game cancelled, the proposed friendly against some of the country's biggest basketball stars, will give the fans their first chance to catch a glimpse of the five new summer signings.

Their three latest recruits are 21-year-old American shooting guard Joshua Cooprider, and ex-Birmingham Bullets duo Paul Gerald and James Chong.

The trio join earlier signings Colin Rhooms and Robbie Bowen, while they have also added Jimmy Smith and Chris Lowe to the coaching team.

Director of Operations Mick Donovan said: "We hope that with these new players on board we can make the top four and then do something in the play-offs."

"We said all along last year that we weren't putting enough pressure on the starting five. The five newcomers are all capable of being starting five players."

Cooprider was one of the star players at Nazarene University, Idaho, where Solvason also studied. Donovan said: "He is a brilliant shooter and can play point guard as well.

"Paul Gerald is a brilliant shooter and a steady scorer as well. He could have picked a few clubs but is excited to be making a fresh start with Worcester."

The club is also excited about the arrival of American ace Smith on their coaching team.