Leicester Riders ended a difficult run of form with a hard-fought 95–93 overtime victory against bottom-of-the-table Caledonia Gladiators, showing resilience in a dramatic contest as they continue their push for playoff positioning in the Super League Basketball Championship.
Following the international break, injuries and roster changes have disrupted the Riders, but new additions have begun to make an impact. Kedrian Johnson has brought much-needed firepower to the offence, while Xavier Bledson continues to show his perimeter threat after an encouraging outing last time out.
Even contest early on
Riders struck first as Flynn Boardman-Raffet sliced through the Gladiators defence to find Travis Evee for the opening lay-up. Nate Martin set the tone defensively with an early block, highlighting the team defensive focus emphasised by Head Coach Rob Paternostro.
The opening period developed into a physical battle inside, with both teams competing strongly in the post. Former Rider Ethan Wright proved a constant threat, knocking down a deep three and leading the Gladiators’ offence.
Neither side could gain control, with the quarter ending all square at 17–17 a piece.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Riders build momentum
Riders began to find rhythm through Johnson, linking up well with Martin before attacking the baseline for consecutive scores. Martin impressed on both ends, even going coast-to-coast for a powerful finish, while Aaron Menzies controlled the glass.
Despite strong defensive resistance from Caledonia led by Malcolm Delpeche and Wright, Riders maintained their edge. A concern emerged as Martin was forced out with an ankle issue after a strong start.
Caledonia responded to cut the deficit, but Boardman-Raffet continued to attack the paint effectively. After Fraser Malcolm hit a big three to close the gap, Riders responded immediately as Bledson found Boardman-Raffet for a late triple.
Despite losing Martin, the Riders took a 45–38 lead into halftime.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Keddy Johnson finds his rhythm
The Gladiators came out strong, with Wright completing a three-point play, but Riders responded through Victor Ndoukou, who knocked down a step-back three.
Johnson continued to control the offence, converting from the line and creating opportunities, while Bledson’s ball movement helped unlock the defence. Boardman-Raffet remained influential, finishing inside and contributing on the boards.
Although Wright continued to cause problems, Riders’ composure and rebounding ensured they maintained control, taking a 68–59 lead into the final quarter.
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Late drama from former Riders’ Ethan Wright forces overtime
Riders looked comfortable early in the fourth as Mike Joiner hit from deep and Menzies continued his strong inside play. Young pathway player Tomide Akinsiku also made an impact with important minutes and rebounds.
However, Caledonia fought back. Big plays from Speelman and Bryan Jr cut the deficit, before Jones Jr tied the game and then gave the Gladiators their first lead since the second quarter.
Riders responded through Johnson, who tied the game after collecting his own rebound, before setting up Menzies for a crucial dunk. But in the closing seconds, former Rider Ethan Wright delivered again, knocking down a clutch three to tie the game at 85–85 and force overtime.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Riders hold their nerve in Overtime.
Caledonia carried momentum into overtime, with Bryan Jr opening the scoring, but Boardman-Raffet responded immediately and continued to lead from the front with key baskets.
With both sides trading blows, Bledson split a pair of free throws to edge Riders ahead before Delpeche responded at the line. Evee then showed composure under pressure, converting two crucial free throws to give Riders a late three-point cushion.
Delpeche’s late dunk kept the Gladiators alive, but Boardman-Raffet added another free throw to extend the lead. Wright had one final chance, but his last-second effort fell short.
Riders held on for a dramatic 95–93 overtime victory on the road.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Looking Ahead
This was a much-needed win for the Riders after both Newcastle Eagles and Bristol Flyers won earlier in the day. Showing resilience and composure in a high-pressure finish. Strong performances from Boardman-Raffet, Johnson, and Trophies Plus Medals Player of the Game Menzies proved decisive.
Riders will now look to build momentum as they aim to climb the table heading into the Super League Basketball playoffs. they face Manchester Basketball at home at the Mattioli Arena on Friday 17th April at 7:30pm. Tickets are available via our website.
