Podgorica, Montenegro – Wednesday, 10 December 2025 — The London Lions fell 94–63 to Budućnost VOLI in a game that remained competitive through the first half but ultimately swung on the hosts’ physicality and execution after the break.

London trailed only 42–38 at halftime but were outmatched in the second half, struggling on the glass, in foul trouble, and unable to generate consistent offence.

Tarik Phillip led London with 16 points, attacking aggressively and hitting three triples. Johnathan Williams III added 11 points and five rebounds, continuing his efficient interior play, while Deane Williams posted 12 points and five rebounds, providing needed frontcourt production.

Budućnost were paced by Nikola Tanašković, who scored a perfect 20 points on 7-of-7 shooting. Rasheed Sulaimon contributed 16 points and six assists, orchestrating the offence and applying constant pressure.

Despite the final margin, London opened well. Budućnost jumped ahead 17–9 with 4:32 left in the first quarter, but the Lions responded with their sharpest stretch of the game, fueled by aggressive drives to the rim, resilience on second efforts, and standout moments like a poster dunk from Johnathan Williams III. Tarik Phillip closed the quarter with a fading three at the buzzer, giving London a 25–24 lead.

The second quarter remained a competitive battle, with London defending with energy and doing just enough offensively to stay within reach. At halftime, the Lions trailed only 42–38 and appeared well within striking distance.

Everything changed to start the third.

Budućnost opened the half with a surge built on physicality, offensive rebounding, and decisive scoring inside the arc. From there, the Lions began to fall behind in areas that usually define their identity.

London lost the rebounding battle 43–29, giving up second-chance looks and extended possessions that Budućnost converted into steady interior scoring. Allowing this level of paint efficiency and offensive rebounding pressure is uncharacteristic for a Lions team built on defence and physical discipline, and it slowly shifted the momentum firmly in VOLI’s favor.

After the game, Head Coach Tautvydas Sabonis emphasised the turning point.“Their physicality in the second half was expected but we didn’t answer. Not a very good second half — we didn’t show up.”

London now turn their attention back to SLB play, heading on the road this Friday to face the Bristol Flyers at SGS College Arena. It’s an opportunity to bounce back — and to redeem themselves on the road against the only team to beat them so far in domestic competition.