London, Friday 17 April — The London Lions saw their nine-game winning streak come to an end on Friday night, falling 95–92 to the Cheshire Phoenix at the Copper Box Arena despite a late push that brought the game down to the final possession.

Tarik Phillip led the Lions with 18 points, while Chaundee Brown Jr. added 17 points, knocking down four threes. Joel Scott provided a spark off the bench with 15 points and seven rebounds, and Aaryn Rai contributed a strong all-around performance with 10 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

“Tough game from our side. We didn’t follow the game plan…this is not our identity,” Head Coach Tautvydas Sabonis said postgame. “This is not the team that was having success the last few weeks, and we have to look at ourselves and understand that every day you’ve got to bring your blood, sweat, and tears.”

London started well, with early contributions from Ethan Price and Joel Scott helping the Lions edge ahead. Back-to-back threes from Scott and Brown gave London momentum, and the Lions carried a 30–26 lead after one quarter.

The second quarter saw Cheshire begin to take control, capitalising on offensive rebounds and second-chance opportunities. Despite strong interior finishes from Price and continued perimeter shooting from Brown, the visitors closed the half on a run, capped by a buzzer-beating three, to take a 55–50 lead into the break.

“We didn’t stick to the game plan. We let people play to their strengths, and they came out with a win,” said Tarik Phillip.

Cheshire extended their advantage in the third quarter, using a decisive run midway through the period to create separation. While London responded through Phillip’s shot-making and Rai’s presence at the line, defensive lapses allowed Cheshire to maintain control. A late push cut the deficit briefly, but the Lions entered the fourth trailing 74–66.

In the final period, Cheshire continued to find answers, stretching the lead to double digits. London, however, refused to go away. A late surge led by Shavar Reynolds Jr. and key offensive rebounds helped the Lions chip away, cutting the deficit to just three in the closing seconds.

Rai’s put-back made it 95–92 with 22.5 seconds remaining, giving London one final opportunity. After a defensive stop, the Lions pushed in transition but turned the ball over in the closing moments, sealing the result for Cheshire.

The Lions were hurt by Cheshire’s second-chance scoring and offensive efficiency in key stretches.

London will now look to respond quickly, turning their attention to Sunday’s matchup in Manchester as they aim to regain momentum heading into the playoffs.