DIRECTOR of basketball Paul James has called on Worcester Wolves to replicate their battling qualities at Leicester Riders tonight (7.30pm).

Wolves suffered only their fourth British Basketball League reversal of the campaign with a narrow 75-70 defeat to London Lions at the University of Worcester Arena on Friday.

But they were forced to take to the floor without towering centre Robert Thurman due to an ankle injury and the American remains a doubt for the clash against Leicester.

With no other recognised centre on the books, following Donatas Visockis’ departure last month, James is calling on Wolves to make up for Thurman’s absence.

He said: “We’re really short-handed right now but hopefully the guys will show the same spirit that they showed against London Lions and it will be a close game.

“It’s going to be a tough game. We’re still down and we’re still trying to bring a couple of players in.”

Wolves remain second in the table but they trail leaders Newcastle Eagles by six points and have played the same number of games.

Fourth-placed Leicester are just two points worse off than Worcester but have three games in hand.

They come into the match following back-to-back wins against Surrey United and Glasgow Rocks.

Wolves won all three league matches between the teams last season but tonight is their first meeting this season.

On the likelihood of Thurman playing, James added: “We’re going to rest him up but, if he’s not fully fit, we’re not going to risk him.

“We don’t want to have him out for any longer than he needs to be, so we’ll make sure he’s right before he comes back.”

Following tonight’s match, Wolves are back at the arena on Sunday against Leeds Force (3pm).