Paternostro has warned against complacency

Coach Rob Paternostro says Leicester Riders must not take anything for granted when they host second-bottom Worthing Thunder on Saturday.

Riders will start as firm favourites against a side who still have a slim chance of making the play-offs despite losing 19 of their 28 BBL games.

But Paternostro warned: "They beat us at home by a point a long time ago.

"They do really well for a team in their first season in the league and will punish you if you're not ready."

Thunder were 90-89 victors when they made their first ever trip to Leicester, in December, but Riders gained revenge with a 98-93 win on the south coast last month.

We know it's a big ask. It's now or never for us Gary Smith

Paternostro added: "We've had some tough games against them.

"They're a tough match-up for any team, and they need the victory. But at this stage of the season, most teams are playing for something, and all the games in the run-in will be challenging."

Thunder arrive at the John Sandford centre for a match coach Gary Smith describes as a must-win if they are to stand a chance of making the play-offs.

Smith added: "It's now or never for us - we still have three of the top five to play but there's nothing we can do about that other than just get out on the floor and play as hard as we can.

"We know it is a big ask to get the win on Saturday."

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