TANER Adu is relishing a return to Southend with the Essex Leopards on Sunday.

Adu spent two seasons playing at the Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre with the Essex Pirates.

And he cannot wait to head back there with the Leopards for their important clash against the Bristol Academy Flyers.

“Playing at Southend will be great as I've got a lot of good memories from playing there and I love the court too,” said Adu, who regularly impressed at the venue for the Pirates.

“My best memory from there was hitting the game winner three pointer against Plymouth with two seconds left and I also scored mu career high 35 points there against Cheshire Jets.

“Hopefully Sunday will be another memorable moment and it would be great if some of the Pirates fans came out to support us.”

Adu has again been impressive form during his first season with the Leopards.

And he believes the team can enjoy a successful end to the season.

The Big Cats have made it through to the final of the National Trophy and Adu now also wants them to move their way up the English Basketball League Division One standings.

“Having a brand new team was hard at the beginning but we've really started to gel now and the results are showing that,” said Adu.

“I've really enjoyed being here and want to taste success this season.

“Hopefully we can win the Trophy because that's something neither the Leopards and I have won before and we also want to win the play-offs.

“Both of those targets are also achievable because everyone is hitting form at the right time just about now.”

Leopards' recent improvements have seen them rise to sixth in the standings, just four points from second.

Adu wants to continue the forward momentum by beating Bristol, who are one place above his team.

But the England international is predicting a close match in Southend.

“I expect Bristol to be a really tough game they have kept the same players for a few years now so they will be well drilled,” said Adu.

“They will also be looking to bounce back after there loss in the semi finals and it's going to be hard for us but we're confident of getting another good result.”

Tickets for the game, which tips off at 4pm, are available on the door priced £6 for adults, £4 for children and £16 for a two adult, two child family.