Vatan Öz / London, UK — Sunday, 14 December — The London Lions battled through a scrappy, physical contest to secure an 87–83 victory over the Surrey 89ers at NCC Hackney, holding firm late to extend their Super League Basketball momentum despite being short-handed on the day. With several rotation players unavailable, London leaned on depth, ball movement, and timely shot-making to control key moments. The Lions shot 45% from three (10–22), scored 36 points in the paint, and received a decisive lift from their bench, which accounted for 49 points — in contrast to Surrey, whose starting five all finished in double figures but struggled to find consistent production beyond the starters.
Karolis Lukošiūnas led the way off the bench, knocking down five-of-six from beyond the arc for 15 points, repeatedly punishing defensive breakdowns and halting Surrey momentum.
“I know why I’m on the court — to shoot open shots and tough shots,” said Lukošiūnas. “I’m happy my teammates found me, and I was able to make those shots.”
Aaryn Rai chipped in 14 points, while Ethan Price was a steady interior presence with 13 points and six rebounds. Tarik Phillip calmly controlled the closing stages, finishing with 14 points and six assists.
Kino Lilly Jr. led a balanced Surrey starting unit with 22 points. The rest of the starting group — Isaiah Small, Michael Graham, Owen Koonce, and Ronald Polite III — also reached double figures. Despite that collective output, the 89ers’ bench contributed just nine points, limiting their ability to sustain runs late.
London established early rhythm through crisp pick-and-roll execution, highlighted by a Chasson Randle and Ethan Price connection for a dunk followed by a defensive shot-clock violation on the other end.
After Surrey endured an early scoring drought, Koonce sparked the visitors with two quick threes, but the Lions responded with strong perimeter shooting and pace, closing the first quarter ahead 27–19.
The period also marked the return of Shavar Reynolds Jr., back on the floor after seven weeks out.
The Lions built a 35–20 second-quarter lead through interior scoring before settling after a Surrey push to carry a 48–40 halftime advantage.
Surrey raised the intensity after halftime, trimming the deficit to 65–61 despite another timely three from Karolis Lukošiūnas.
The 89ers pulled within one midway through the fourth, but a poster from Deane Williams and a late three from Aaryn Rai helped London close out the 87–83 win.
On the defensive end, Lukošiūnas pointed to the collective effort while stressing the need for greater consistency.
“Just find ways to get stops,” he said. “Some things may happen that shouldn’t, but staying solid and helping each other defensively is what matters.”
The Lions now turn their attention to Wednesday night, returning to the Copper Box Arena to host EuroCup leaders Beşiktaş Gain Istanbul.
