Portland, Monday 12 October 2026 – The London Lions took to the court against the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night in a landmark matchup between British basketball and the NBA.
Despite a 119–66 defeat, the occasion marked a significant moment for the Lions, giving the team the opportunity to compete against NBA opposition in a memorable experience on the international stage.
Portland made an explosive start, using its athleticism and ball movement to build an early lead. The Trail Blazers found success attacking the basket and creating open looks from beyond the arc, taking a 34–21 advantage into the second quarter.
The NBA side continued to apply pressure in the second, with its pace and perimeter shooting extending the margin.
The Lions looked to respond through Ethan Price, who knocked down three-pointers in the first half, while Keenan Evans and DeVante Jones also found ways to score. Portland went into the break leading 72–33.
Reflecting on the experience, Lions head coach Tautvydas Sabonis highlighted the challenge of facing NBA opposition and the lessons the team could take from the occasion.
“We played against an NBA team. The physicality, the length, we knew they were going to be good. They hit us hard, we were maybe a little bit anxious, nerves, playing in front of a big crowd, but we got a taste of top-level basketball,” said Sabonis.
The Lions continued to compete after the interval, with Maxwell Lewis opening the third quarter with a tough floater. DeVante Jones provided an offensive spark, attacking the basket and connecting from the perimeter, while Thomas Kennedy and Joel Scott added finishes inside.
Lewis led the Lions with 13 points, followed by Jones with 12 and Price with eight.
Despite Portland maintaining control throughout the second half, the Lions continued to find scoring opportunities, with Jones, Kennedy and Scott among those contributing in the closing quarter.
Lewis also recorded four steals, while the Lions finished with 13 steals and 15 assists.
Sabonis emphasised the importance of taking lessons from the game while quickly turning the team's attention back to its domestic and European commitments.
“We've gotta be better, we've gotta listen, be focused, be disciplined, understand that when we get an opportunity like this we've gotta be ready to show out. A lot of learnings, fun experience for everyone to be on an NBA court, in an NBA environment but after today, it's over, we've got to focus for Thursday.”
The Lions now return their attention to European competition, heading back to Copper Box Arena on Thursday for a EuroCup clash against Skyliners Frankfurt. London will look to build on its recent home victory over La Laguna Tenerife as it continues its European campaign.
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