The London Lions captured their second piece of silverware this season with an 83–74 victory over Manchester in the SLB Cup Final at the AO Arena, using a dominant second-half defensive performance to turn the game around.
Trailing 40–32 at halftime after a slow offensive start, the Lions responded with intensity and physicality after the break, leaning on their defence to generate momentum and ultimately take control of the contest.
Kam McGusty led the Lions with 21 points and was named MVP of the game, delivering key baskets down the stretch, while Joel Scott recorded 15 points and 12 rebounds in a commanding two-way performance. Chaundee Brown Jr. and Tarik Phillip each added 12 points, with Deane Williams contributing 11 points and crucial plays on both ends.
Head Coach Tautvydas Sabonis emphasised the team’s identity following the win.
“They understood that without doing what we do every day, without playing with the defence that we do, we are not a good team,” Sabonis said. “But when we do that, we are an amazing team.”
Manchester opened the game with strong defensive pressure, limiting London’s offensive rhythm and building a 19–11 lead after the first quarter. Despite early scoring from Phillip, the Lions struggled to generate clean looks, while Manchester found success through Jordan Johnson and PJay Smith.
The second quarter followed a similar pattern, with Manchester maintaining control and extending their lead to double digits. London showed flashes, including strong defensive plays from Scott and timely scoring from Brown and McGusty, but still trailed by eight at the break.
The game shifted in the third quarter.
London came out of halftime with renewed energy, tightening defensively and attacking with more purpose. Scott’s presence inside and Williams’ activity on the glass helped spark a run, while McGusty and Phillip created key scoring opportunities. The Lions chipped away at the deficit before taking the lead late in the quarter, entering the fourth up 58–57.
“We knew what we needed to do from the get-go,” Scott said. “It was just doing the little things, playing with energy, and we did that. Little by little we chipped away and followed the game plan.”
The final quarter showcased London at their best.
McGusty knocked down multiple clutch shots, including a step-back three to extend the lead, while Williams added a key block and three-pointer during a decisive stretch. Phillip’s defensive pressure led to transition scoring, and the Lions began to break down Manchester’s zone with improved ball movement and shot-making.
Despite a strong scoring performance from Johnson, London’s defence held firm in the closing minutes. Key stops and composed free-throw shooting allowed the Lions to maintain control and close out the 83–74 victory.
“I think that’s the best part about this team,” Scott added. “Anyone can go off at any point, and that’s why we’re so special. We trust each other.”
The Lions now sit on the brink of a historic season, having secured their second trophy and continuing their pursuit of a domestic quadruple.
London return to action on Wednesday at the Copper Box Arena, where they will face Sheffield as they shift focus back to league play.
Words & Image courtesy of The London Lions