Trento, Italy, Tuesday 30 December - Trento used an otherworldly performance from Devante Jones to hand London their first loss in the all-time head to head, as Lions fell 85-73 in Italy on Tuesday evening.



Devante Jones had 33 points while missing just three field goal attempts as Lions - who are known for their stifling defence - had no answers for him in a game that could prove crucial with playoff implications.



Lions fell to 5-7, currently sitting outside of the playoff frame, while Trento improved to 7-5.



“We didn’t come, we weren’t prepared for a game like this,” Lions Head Coach Tautvydas Sabonis commented in a short interview after the game.

“We thought after (beating) Besiktas we thought we were good. Congrats to Trento.”



Neither team could gain a real edge in the first half with Lions leading by 1 at the break, but Trento took control in the third using a 9-0 run to open the second half, as Jones had 12 points in the period.



Trento went to the line no less than 30 times, while Lions’ season-long free throw struggles continued as they went 10 of 17.



A 22 point, six assist outing from Shavar Reynolds Jr would not be enough, though his performance will be a positive in that he is quickly finding his flow since returning from injury.

Deane Williams was the only other Lion to reach double figures with 14, while Tarik Phillip had nine.

The two teams split the season series at 1-1, while Lions lead the all-time series 3-1. 


Attention now moves back to domestic competition, as Lions take on Bristol Flyers in SLB Trophy Semi-Final action at the Copper Box Arena on Friday night at 7:30pm.