Robert Bailey, Star Writer

Slowed in their preparation by uncertainty the defeding champions Urban Knights and last season's runner-ups Port Royal Bulls will kick-off the new look 2009 Flow National Basket-ball League (NBL) season.

With the competition scheduled to have tipped off in April of this year, various scenarios have cause the league to be pushed five-months back, a frustrating scenario for the teams. However, come tip-off this evening they must be ready to go. Kevin Alexander, assistant coach of the Knights, is expecting a challenge right out the gates.

"We are expecting a very tough and exciting game from them because they are a veteran side with a number of the experienced players, who can destroy us very quickly," he said.

"I think that key for us in this game will be how we play defence and I believe that once we play good defence, then we should be able to win this game," Alexander added.

The Knights lost the services of point guard Omar Barnes and centre Andre Wilby, who have both been transferred to Tivoli Gardens. The team will for this game and for most of the season depend on the likes of forward Ian Gooden, Javon Bailey and centre Oniel Mundle.

The Knights defeated the Bulls 2-1 in the final of their best-of-three series to lift the title last year.

Despite claiming to have been adversely affected by the lay-off, Bulls coach Oniel Williams, is still looking for his team to put on a good show for their fans.

"I think the delay of the competition has affected us very badly. However, we are going to do our best," said Williams.

"I think that we can beat them despite our lack of preparations, but we will have to play our style of game in order for us to do it," Williams added.

Captain Orane Hart, along with point guard Paul Oliphant and forward Dovian Wade, are expected to lead the Bulls' charge for the victory. In the curtain-raiser at 6:15p.m. newcomers Selassie Gardens will oppose Braves Chiefs.