Riders respond in style with statement road win in Sheffield
The Leicester Riders bounced back from Friday night’s heartbreak in emphatic fashion, securing a 92–80 victory over the B. Braun Sheffield Sharks in the Steel City.
After a last-second defeat to Manchester, Leicester produced a composed and high-intensity performance to keep their playoff push firmly on track, with Travis Evee and Flynn Boardman-Raffet leading the charge.
Keddy Johnson Set the Tone
Leicester Riders made a strong start despite an early miss from Boardman-Raffet, as Sheffield struck first through Fahro Alihodzic. However, Keddy Johnson quickly responded with a three-pointer to spark the Riders into life.
Victor Ndoukou and Boardman-Raffet added early scores as Leicester found rhythm, while Johnson produced a highlight coast-to-coast and-one play after a steal.
The Riders’ defensive pressure forced sloppy Sheffield turnovers, and the introduction of Tomiwa Akinsiku provided an immediate boost on the boards, grabbing key rebounds and finishing inside.
A dominant opening saw Leicester take control, leading 30–16 at the end of the first.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Riders Withstand Sharks Response
Sheffield came out with urgency in the second quarter, with Prentiss Nixon and Dirk Williams cutting into the deficit early on.
Riders Head Coach Rob Paternostro, was forced to make some early changes as both Aaron Menzies and Tomide Akinsiku both got into foul trouble early which forced Riders to adjust the game plan early.
But Riders responded well, with Xavier Bledson producing a pair of excellent assists first finding Johnson, then Evee to maintain momentum. Evee continued to impress, leading the offence with both scoring and playmaking.
Despite Sheffield finding success from the perimeter through Jordan Ratinho, the Riders remained composed. Ndoukou’s confident shooting and Boardman-Raffet’s ability to draw fouls kept the scoreboard ticking.
Riders’ defensive intensity continued to disrupt the Sharks, with Evee grabbing a steal late in the half. The Riders carried an 11-point lead into halftime, 51–40.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Control Maintained
Boardman-Raffet opened the second half with a three-pointer as the Riders looked to extend their advantage. Although a couple of turnovers allowed Sheffield Sharks to respond through Williams, the Riders quickly regained control.
Aaron Menzies added a strong inside finish, while Alihodzic continued to lead Sheffield’s scoring effort. However, Leicester’s offensive structure remained effective, with Evee and Johnson dictating tempo.
Sheffield’s defensive focus on Boardman-Raffet created space for others, and Ndoukou capitalised, continuing his efficient scoring display.
The Riders maintained their composure and entered the final quarter with a 71–59 lead.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Riders Close It Out
Sheffield opened the fourth quarter with renewed energy, but Riders answered through Bledson, who attacked the baseline for a crucial score.
Akinsiku once again made a strong impact off the bench with key rebounds, while the Sharks mounted a late push through Ratinho and Nick Kern Jr, including a powerful dunk that brought the home crowd to life.
With the deficit cut to single digits, the pressure increased, but the Riders remained composed. Evee produced a standout moment late on, controlling possession before driving to the basket for a crucial finish.
Strong game management in the closing minutes ensured the Riders saw out the contest, securing a well-earned 92–80 victory.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Looking Ahead to Tuesday
It was a complete team performance from Leicester, combining defensive intensity with efficient scoring across all four quarters. Evee and Boardman-Raffet led the way, while Johnson, Ndoukou, and the bench unit all played key roles.
The Riders now turn their attention to a quick turnaround, as they prepare to host the Sheffield Sharks once again in a rematch at the Mattioli Arena on Tuesday night in a crucial fixture in the final stretch of the Super League Basketball Championship.
Tickets for our final Super League Basketball Championship Home Game are on sale now.
