London, Thursday 2 October - The London Lions' return to EuroCup competition ended in a sobering 86-59 defeat to Buducnost VOLI Podgorica on Thursday night, as the experienced Montenegrin side demonstrated the step up in quality from domestic competition.

After a perfect 3-0 start in the Super League Basketball, the Lions encountered a Buducnost outfit packed with European pedigree. The visitors controlled proceedings from the opening tip, establishing a 20-12 first-quarter lead as London struggled to find their rhythm offensively.

The second period compounded London's difficulties. Johnathan Williams III battled hard with 7 first-half points, but the Lions' task became significantly harder when floor general Shavar Reynolds departed with an apparent knee injury late in the half.Buducnost capitalised ruthlessly, taking a 46-25 advantage into the break behind Skylar Mays' 10 points.

Any hopes of a revival vanished early in the third quarter. Despite Tarik Phillip's and-one attempt to spark momentum, Buducnost unleashed a devastating 20-3 run featuring back-to-back threes that effectively sealed the contest.

"It was definitely a wake up call for us," said Kameron McGusty, who led the Lions with 13 points. "They came out physical and aggressive, we've just got to learn from this game."

Head coach Tautvydas Sabonis shouldered responsibility post-game. "We weren't ready for this competition, it's a big wake up call for everybody," he said."I didn't do a good job preparing these guys for this game, it's on me."

Buducnost's balanced attack saw Nikola Tanaskovic post 13 points on efficient 6-of-10 shooting, whilst Skylar Mays and Rasheed Sulaimon each contributed 12.The visitors shot 53.8% inside the arc and 45.5% from three-point range, overwhelming London's defence.

"All guys gave maximum, all guys played great defence from the start," said Tanaskovic. "Great start for us for the season."

Buducnost coach Andrej Zakelj remained measured:"It's a win that's important. I think we were better in the second half, controlling the rebounds and keeping the offence smart. This is just the first game, it's a long season."

The defeat extends Buducnost's perfect 3-0 record all-time against the Lions, but with 17 EuroCup fixtures remaining, there's ample opportunity for Sabonis' side to adjust.

Lions now travel to Turkey, where they face Besiktas GAIN Istanbul on Tuesday night.