Lions Roar to Foursome
The Story
London Lions capped a perfect season by claiming all four available domestic trophies, defeating rivals Cheshire Phoenix in front of a electric O2 Arena crowd. The rivalry between these two sides — which stretches back to the 2024 Trophy Final — delivered another memorable chapter, though it was ultimately one-sided.
First Half Dominance
London burst out of the blocks with a 7-0 run, with Tarik Phillip hitting an early three and Joel Scott announcing himself with a thunderous transition jam. Despite SLB MVP Patrick Robinson working hard in the paint for Cheshire, the Lions' shooting was relentless. A chippy spell saw Laquincy Rideau pick up an unsportsmanlike foul, but that only seemed to galvanise London further. At the half: 61–43.
Joel Scott: Molten MVP
Scott put up a jaw-dropping 19 points and 11 rebounds in just 14 minutes, giving Cheshire absolutely no answer on either end.
Second Half Control
Cheshire came out brighter after the break with Policelli and Rideau showing more intent, but London — led by Kameron McGusty and a tenacious Aaryn Rai on the offensive glass — steadily extended their lead. By the end of the third, it was 87–67, a 20-point cushion.
A Fitting Farewell for Ovie Soko
In an emotional moment, Lions captain Ovie Soko — who announced his retirement at season's end — took to the court in the final minutes, scoring his last-ever professional points as part of a 104-point haul. A perfect send-off for a club legend.
Key Performers