Leopards start their pre-season campaign in earnest on Saturday when they travel to Guildford Heat for a friendly game.

Paul James’ side won the country’s top honour in April having lifted the BBL Cup at the NIA in January. With a full-time squad, and competing in the division above the Leopards, they provide a baptism of fire for coach Jon Burnell’s new-look side.

Heat will represent Britain in the ULEB Cup – basketball’s equivalent of the UEFA Cup – and among their five opponents at the group stage are top Spanish side DKV Jovenut from Barcelona.

Guildford were formed from the ashes of the now defunct Thames Valley Tigers club, and the game will take place at Tigers’ old home of Bracknell Leisure Centre, tip-off 7pm.

The Big Cats are expected to field several trialists as they look forward to the forthcoming EBL season, and general manager Dave Ryan knows it will be a tough test for them: “Guildford away is probably the hardest start to the season we could have had. But it will give us the chance to look at some new players, and will certainly give the youngsters some experience.”

One surprise inclusion in the Leopards’ line-up is likely to be shooting guard Sam Salter who left the club for Division One rivals Reading Rockets in mid-July, but has already parted company with the Berkshire side.

“When Sam left us we always said he was welcome back” said Ryan. “Nothing’s definite yet, but if Sam wants to re-sign for us we’d be mad to turn him down.”

However, the Big Cats are expected to be without forward Errol Seaman who has no plans to play this season.

Leopards return to Wodson Park on Saturday September 15 when Milton Keynes Lions are the visitors.