The London Lions secured their place in the BBL Trophy final thanks to an 85-81 victory over the Bristol Flyers at the Copper Box.
Heading into this second leg, the Lions had a 20-point advantage after their 81-61 win in Bristol.
It was not a smooth ride to the final, however. Bristol took the lead early on, with lazy offence and sloppy passes from the Lions translating into easy buckets for the travelling side.
Perhaps complacent knowing their advantage from the first leg, the Lions allowed the Flyers to have a much deserved 21-19 lead after the opening quarter.
The next quarter saw a complete change in attitude from the Lions.
The home side gained control of the match thanks to their second unit, with Will Neighbour having a huge impact. The 6’ 10” power forward showed toughness in defence and added intensity to the offence as he helped shift the balance of the tie from the bench.
?? “OK young buck, I like it!” @azania13 on the steal and score from Bradley Kaboza for @LondonLions.
?: https://t.co/5Z3hL32KCC
?: https://t.co/gqHHFi29M7#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/H7uStKmieU— British Basketball League (@BBLofficial) March 9, 2022
At the half, the Lions led 42-36.
The second half was a cagey affair, but two-time BBL MVP Justin Robinson helped the hosts steady the ship. The 34-year-old had a disappointing night with his shot, but his playmaking was as impressive as ever. The veteran finished the game with eight dimes, vital to his side’s performance.
Going into the fourth quarter 66-63 up, the Lions’ place in the final was all but guaranteed. This allowed them to play with added freedom, and it was fitting that a 3-pointer from captain Robinson secured the victory for the home side.
London Lions will face the Cheshire Phoenix in the BBL Trophy Final on March 20.
Visit the Hackney Post’s live blog covering the game here.
