The London Lions stormed to the Super League Basketball (SLB) playoff semi-finals following a resounding 22-point victory against the Surrey 89ers.
Following an 81-76 first leg victory, the defending champions were largely comfortable during their 86-69 win in the second leg. Newcastle Eagles await the London club, after they defeated Manchester Basketball by a slender four points.
The Mayor of London recently announced an unprecedented basketball taskforce to expand the game in the capital and foster grassroots development. A brand-new stadium is set to be built, providing a long-term home for high-level competition and increased development opportunities for London’s finest basketball talents.
The project hopes to expand community access to basketball across the capital, while creating state-of-the-art training and game-day environments for elite athletes – including the London Lions men’s and women’s teams, and grassroots programmes.
To ensure that basketball continues to develop across the city, the planned venue would serve as an outpost for talent development, youth programmes and community engagement initiatives. The campaign also plays a role in the Mayor of London’s commitment to greener spaces and aspirational goals regarding sustainable building.
The Lions, who are targeting re-entry into top European competition, tip off at 7:30pm this Friday in the first leg of their semi-final.
London Lions team captain, Ovie Soko, said: “Hard work pays off and this victory certainly demonstrates that. We are ecstatic to be back in the semi-finals, and our group is ready for any challenge thrown our way.
“We want to continue to build a winning culture, and winning is how you do that. The support of the fans at the Copper Box has been incredible, and we love to see all of the support from the fans creating a great atmosphere and being part of the journey.”
