Leicester Riders return to Mattioli Arena on Friday for their second regular-season home game of the 2026/27 campaign, as they take on Manchester Basketball in a 7:30pm tip-off. After a run of tough results, the Riders will be aiming to get their first win on the board and give the home crowd something to cheer.
LAST TIME OUT
The Riders came agonisingly close to a road win against Surrey 89ers, eventually falling 107–102 in overtime.
Leicester led by five with 18 seconds remaining, but Surrey hit a late three to force overtime. Taryn Todd’s late free throws had put the Riders in front, while Jaylon White hit an important three in the extra period. Despite the defeat, Leicester showed plenty of fight to recover and push the game beyond regulation.
THE OPPOSITION
Manchester also arrive after a close contest, having lost 92–94 to Caledonia Gladiators. Jonathan Brown led Manchester with 25 points, while Keon Thompson added 24 points, five rebounds and four assists. The Riders will need to contain both players and prevent them from finding an attacking rhythm.
RIDERS TO WATCH
Bernard Pelote was Leicester’s leading scorer against Surrey with 28 points, including five three-pointers. His ability to score from the perimeter will be a key part of the Riders’ attack.
Taryn Todd added 21 points against Surrey and came up with crucial free throws late in the fourth quarter. His scoring and ability to make plays under pressure could be important again.
JJ White contributed 19 points and six assists against Surrey, then hit a timely three in overtime. His playmaking and scoring will be valuable as Leicester look to get the offence moving.
MANCHESTER TO WATCH
Jonathan Brown and Keon Thompson will be two of Manchester’s main threats after combining for 49 points against Caledonia. Luke Nelson is another player to keep an eye on: he recorded 13 points and eight assists in Manchester’s recent win over Newcastle.
THE MATCHUP
Both teams have shown they can keep games close, so the small details could make the difference. Leicester will look to build on their comeback against Surrey, protect the ball and make Manchester work defensively. With the Riders back at Mattioli Arena, the home support could be vital.
Friday 23 October
Leicester Riders vs Manchester Basketball
7:30pm tip-off
Mattioli Arena
