London, Friday 3 April — The London Lions produced a commanding second-half performance to defeat the Caledonia Gladiators 81–68 at the Copper Box Arena, using a decisive third-quarter run to break open a game that was far tighter at halftime.

After leading by just six at the break, the Lions responded out of halftime with energy and intent, opening the third quarter on a 9–0 run to seize control — a stretch that ultimately proved the difference.

Joel Scott led the way with 13 points, while Tarik Phillip added 11 points and 7 assists. Shavar Reynolds Jr. contributed 11 points, Kam McGusty chipped in 10, and Aaryn Rai added 9 points and 6 rebounds in another balanced offensive showing from London.

“Start of the third quarter really pushed us over, got us to where we need to be and set the tone for the rest of the game,” Scott said postgame. “Everyone got to play, knew what they needed to do, executed the game plan and it showed.”

London came out firing in the opening quarter, setting the tone early with pace and defensive pressure. Reynolds knocked down a three to open scoring, while Ethan Price and Scott followed with strong finishes as the Lions quickly built a 7–2 lead.

The momentum continued through the period, highlighted by a transition slam from Price and an efficient scoring stretch inside from Jordan Williams. Despite late threes from Caledonia, the Lions maintained control to take a 25–17 lead after one.

The second quarter proved more challenging. The Gladiators responded with improved offensive execution, cutting into the deficit through perimeter shooting and aggressive drives. London continued to find answers through Reynolds and Phillip, but Caledonia’s run brought the game back within five late in the half.

A key second-chance finish from Scott helped steady the Lions, who carried a 41–35 lead into halftime.

The game shifted decisively in the third quarter.

McGusty sparked the Lions with back-to-back scores to open the half before defensive intensity took over. London forced turnovers and converted in transition, capping a 9–0 run to extend the lead to 50–35 and force a Gladiators timeout.

Although Caledonia briefly responded, the Lions maintained control. Phillip orchestrated the offence with composure, including a standout transition play that led to a lob finish from Chaundee Brown Jr., igniting the home crowd.

London entered the fourth quarter firmly in control, leading 61–48.

In the final period, the Lions continued to build separation. Scott’s and-one finish early in the quarter set the tone, while Reynolds and Rai added timely baskets to keep momentum firmly on London’s side.

Despite late efforts from the Gladiators to close the gap, the Lions remained composed down the stretch, maintaining a double-digit lead and closing out the 81–68 victory.

Head Coach Tautvydas Sabonis once again pointed to defence as the foundation of the performance.

“When we’re doing what we do, we’re a good team,” Sabonis said. “I’ve said it a million times — when we do it on the defensive end, it carries to the offence. When you don’t play defence, the shots also don’t fall. My message is always the same, do what you’re supposed to do in the minutes you’re on the court and do it to 100%.”

The win continues the Lions’ strong run of form as they improve to 21–5 and remain firmly at the top of the SLB standings.

London now turn their attention to a major test on Sunday as they travel to face Cheshire, currently second in the league, in what shapes up to be one of the biggest matchups of the season.