The Leicester Riders tipped off their 2024/25 campaign in style, easing to a convincing victory over USA Select in their opening preseason fixture at the Mattioli Arena. The Riders impressed across all four quarters, with new signings Travis Evee and Mike Mitchell Jr slotting seamlessly into the line-up and familiar face Spencer Johnson setting the tone for the season ahead.
Fast Start from Leicester
The Riders wasted no time in stamping their authority on the contest. Johnson opened the scoring with a driving lay-up before guard Evee began to dictate play, registering four first-quarter assists. Mitchell Jr. found his range early with a three-pointer, while Tomiwa Sulaiman drilled a fast-break triple to force an early timeout.
Duke Shelton powered inside for points, whilst another debutant Denzel Mahoney quickly introduced himself to the Riders’ cavalry with a stylish spin move and a confident three. Leicester Riders ended the first quarter ahead 27–17.
Credit: Leicester Riders Media | Nathan Green
Building Momentum Before Half-Time
The second quarter only strengthened the Riders’ grip on the game. Shelton opened the scoring before Mitchell Jr. caught fire, hitting back-to-back threes. Evee added one from deep himself, keeping Leicester in full control as the lead grew to 19. Johnson added flair with sharp footwork and a composed finish, while his link-up play with Mitchell Jr. and Nate Martin under the basket showcased the Riders’ growing chemistry.
By half-time, Leicester were firmly in command, heading into the break with a 56–35 advantage.
Riders Keep the Pressure On
Sulaiman came out hot in the third quarter, scoring five quick baskets in just two minutes. Shelton added his trademark dunk, and Mahoney knocked down his second three-pointer of the night. USA Select battled back through Sotos and Bynum, with Sotos hitting from deep, but Johnson responded with a tough and-one finish. Despite a buzzer-beating three from USA’s Gordan, Leicester closed the quarter up 82–54.
Closing It Out in Style
Mitchell Jr. continued his fine shooting display in the final quarter, draining another three as the Riders kept their foot on the gas. USA’s Nilous Hodge worked hard on the baseline with a pair of baskets, but the Riders’ quality proved too much. Evee and Mitchell Jr. combined effectively throughout, while Johnson’s energy and composure highlighted why he will be central to the Riders’ season.
Stop & Pop 🎯
— Leicester Riders | Basketball (@RidersBball) September 5, 2025
Mike Mitchell Jr. from deep! pic.twitter.com/YnXgDi4XXf
Credit: Leicester Riders | Nathan Green
Final Score
The Leicester Riders were comfortable winners as they beat USA Select 102-66 in their preseason opener, showcasing sharp offence, strong team chemistry, and promising performances from both new and returning players.
Fans won’t have to wait long to see the Riders again — they return to the Mattioli Arena on Friday, 19 September, when they host London Lions in what promises to be a thrilling Super League Basketball season opener. Tip-off is at 7:30pm. Tickets on Sale now!
