London, Sunday 23 November — The London Lions bounced back in style at the Copper Box Arena, defeating the Newcastle Eagles 95–82 to improve to 9–1 in Super League Basketball action. London controlled the first half with sharp execution and balanced scoring, then battled through a shakier second half as Newcastle surged back, ultimately settling in and making the key plays needed to close out the win.
Amin Adamu was outstanding for London, leading the way with 20 points and showcasing his best perimeter shooting of the season, going 80% from three while attacking downhill with confidence. His early scoring burst set the tone and his efficiency from deep stretched Newcastle’s defense all afternoon. Alongside him, Joel Scott delivered another reliable performance with 16 points and 4 rebounds, finishing well around the rim and providing steady interior presence on both ends.
Together, Adamu’s shot-making and Scott’s paint production gave the Lions the balance they needed to control the game from start to finish.
Adamu echoed the need for consistency across four quarters.
“We started off great, we needed to set the tone from the start which we did. The only issue was the second half — we didn’t have the same mindset. We need to keep that same mentality and maintain our rhythm.”
Adamu set the tone early with 11 first-quarter points, powering the Lions to a 36–22 lead after the opening period. London looked in complete control throughout the first half, with their depth on full display as nearly every player chipped in during a dominant second quarter.
The second half, however, told a different story. London struggled to maintain the same intensity, allowing Newcastle to creep back into the game behind Ray’Sean Taylor’s efficiency, facilitating a burst of scoring from Deion Hammond.
The Eagles cut the lead down to as little as seven points, forcing the Lions to refocus and steady themselves.
London settled again in the final minutes, with Adamu attacking late and Deane Williams and Johnathan Williams III turning offensive rebounds into crucial second-chance points that helped the Lions finish the game firmly in control.
Head Coach Tautvydas Sabonis praised his team’s response after a difficult midweek result.
“Good reaction from my team in the first half after what happened the other day. Second half wasn’t as good, but happy with the game, the physicality we brought. Looking forward to four days off, I think everyone deserves it.”
After a short break for the FIBA international window, the Lions return to EuroCup action next Thursday, traveling to face Lietkabelis Panevėžys at 6 p.m. as they look to carry their strong form forward and stay competitive in Group B.