The London Lions snapped their two-game losing streak with a hard-fought 76-65 win over the Bristol Flyers at the CopperBox Arena, finally getting back on track in the Super League Basketball Trophy. Desperate for a victory after consecutive losses, the Lions dug deep, inspired by the return of star Ovie Soko to their home court for the first time since 2022.
(London Lions Media)
In front of a shell-shocked fanbase, still processing the financial collapse of previous owners 777 Partners, the Lions were determined to avoid a third straight defeat. Bristol Flyers, playing their second game in as many days, started brightly, leading 13-10 after a low-scoring first quarter. Raphell Thomas-Edwards was a key figure for the Flyers, causing problems on both ends of the court with steals, rebounds, and vital points.
The second quarter saw a momentum shift as the Lions fought back, going on a 7-0 run to take the lead. Captain Jordan "JT" Taylor's leadership was pivotal, highlighted by his free throws and sharp decision-making helped turn the tide. London's defensive intensity ramped up, with Ade Adebayo's block on GB regular Evan Walshe and Alen Hadzibegovic's tough defence on Keddy Johnson keeping the Flyers at bay. A well-timed layup from Michael Brisker extended the Lions' lead to 34-25 heading into the half.
Bristol pushed back in the third quarter, scoring 21 points and narrowing the gap to just four by the end of the period. However, the Lions, led by Taylor's veteran presence, kept their composure in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Flyers 26-19 to secure the much-needed victory.
Despite shooting only 37% from the field and a dismal 9% from beyond the arc, the Lions dominated the paint, scoring 38 points inside and out-rebounding the Flyers 47-35. Fast break points were another key factor, with London adding 21 to the tally. Ovie Soko's return gave the team a spark, and Jordan Taylor's leadership ensured the Lions weathered the storm to send their fans home with renewed hope for the season.
(London Lions Media)
Captain Jordan “JT” Taylor discussed the difference between the game against the Flyers’ and the previous two Super League Basketball Trophy fixtures during his post-game interview:
“Attitude and energy. My attitude wasn’t great [in] the first couple of games. [I’m] trying to fix that and trying to become a leader, first and foremost. It takes a minute, you know, we’ve only been together for a month, really. So we’re just trying to figure each other out. Figure out. [We’re trying to] figure out basic principles. We have rookies, we have older [guys]. We’re just trying to figure everybody out.”
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