Rob Paternostro praises Ayron Hardy's contribution
Last updated on .From the section Basketball
Leicester Riders coach Rob Paternostro says fans should make the most of being able to see forward Ayron Hardy play.
Hardy has been made the BBL team of the week 10 times this season and has been a star performer as Riders have moved up to fourth place with a 16-5 record.
Paternostro told BBC Radio Leicester: "He is a special talent and special guy and all Riders fans should appreciate watching him week in week out."
Leicester play MK Lions at the John Sandford Centre on Saturday.
It will be the sixth time the clubs have met this season and Riders lead the series 3-2.
Paternostro's side still look well set for a top-four finish, although last Friday's 87-79 defeat away against leaders Newcastle looks to have ended their title hopes.
"The Newcastle game ended in disappointment for us," Paternostro added.
"We felt like we were in a good position with a few minutes to go, but a couple of mistakes and a couple of key plays by them and we came up short.
"It was a great atmosphere and a fun game to play in. It was encouraging that we were able to finally shoot it a bit better up there, but we felt like it was a missed opportunity."
Riders did bounce back with a 76-56 win over Glasgow Rocks on Sunday.
"I was happy with our intelligent defending, we understood the gameplan and were able to get another road win which made the journey home feel a whole lot better," Paternostro added.
"Ayron Hardy continues to expand his game, even though he has had a phenomenal season, he continues to improve in many areas which is a great sign for his future in the game."
