The London Lions delivered a commanding performance at the Copper Box Arena, defeating Sheffield 81–60 in a game they controlled from the opening tip.
London set the tone early with disciplined defence, efficient offence and a level of composure that never allowed Sheffield to gain momentum, securing their ninth straight victory in convincing fashion.
Shavar Reynolds Jr and Aaryn Rai led the scoring with 11 points each, while the Lions’ depth was once again on display, with contributions across the roster.
Ciaran Sandy, Joel Scott and Amin Adamu each added nine points in a balanced team effort that highlighted London’s ball movement and overall cohesion.
The Lions struck early in the first quarter.
Reynolds opened the scoring with a smooth drive, before Tarik Phillip buried a step‑back three to spark the attack. Rai struck from long range as London raced into an early lead.
Scott made an immediate impact off the bench with successive scores inside, and a late three from Chaundee Brown Jr gave London a 23–15 advantage after one.
London tightened their grip in the second quarter.
Their defensive pressure forced an early shot‑clock violation, and their mix of full‑court pressure and zone defence disrupted Sheffield’s rhythm.
Sandy gave London a lift with a strong finish and sharp cutting, before the Lions broke the game open with a 7–0 run that stretched the lead beyond 20 points.
By half‑time, London were firmly in control at 48–28.
Any remaining doubt vanished in the third quarter.
After Sheffield opened with a three, London replied instantly as Kameron McGusty created a steal leading to a Brown finish. Reynolds continued to dictate the offence, while Scott’s drawn charge underlined London’s physical edge.
Ethan Price dropped a three from the top of the key, and McGusty added a driving finish as the Lions moved clear at 66–39 heading into the final period.
Adamu opened the fourth with a steal and emphatic finish before adding a corner three, while Rai powered inside for another strong score. Sheffield found some late points, but the Lions managed the closing minutes with control to seal an 81–60 win.
Head coach Tautvydas Sabonis praised the execution and defensive discipline, noting his pride in a performance that reinforced London’s status as one of the league’s most complete sides.
The Lions return to the Copper Box Arena on Friday to face Cheshire.
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