Leicester Riders fell to a 103–90 defeat against Surrey 89ers in the SLB Championship on Friday night, as a strong offensive display from the visitors proved too much to overcome.
Despite flashes of quality including an impressive debut from Xavier Bledson and a third-quarter surge led by Travis Evee, Riders were unable to contain Surrey’s scoring threat across all four quarters.
The result comes after Leicester’s positive win over Bristol Flyers last week, with Head Coach Rob Paternostro able to call upon a full roster, including new additions Keddy Johnson and debutant Bledson.
Surrey Start Fast in Opening Quarter
Riders won the opening possession, but it was Surrey who struck first through Tyrin Lawrence, setting the tone early.
Leicester responded through Flynn Boardman-Raffet, who attacked the basket aggressively and added a three-point play, while Nate Martin’s hook shot kept Riders within touching distance.
Xavier Bledson made an immediate impact on his debut, knocking down back-to-back three-pointers to energise the home crowd and close the gap.
However, Surrey’s offence led by Isaiah Small proved difficult to contain, as the visitors edged the opening quarter 29–24.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Visitors Extend Lead Before Half-Time
Riders looked to build momentum early in the second through Mike Joiner, but Surrey continued to execute efficiently on offence.
Kino Lilly Jr. and Michael Graham both contributed key scores, helping Surrey stretch their lead to double digits midway through the quarter.
Bledson continued to impress, showcasing his playmaking with a no-look assist to Aaron Menzies, while Keddy Johnson began to find his rhythm, attacking the basket and leading a brief Riders rally.
Despite those efforts, Surrey maintained control and went into the break with a 59–48 advantage.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Evee Sparks Third Quarter Fightback
Leicester came out of the half with renewed energy, led by Travis Evee.
The guard caught fire from beyond the arc, scoring eight quick points including consecutive three-pointers to bring Riders back within four points.
Evee also contributed as a playmaker, delivering a wraparound assist to Victor Ndoukou as Leicester threatened a comeback.
However, Surrey responded through Isaiah Small and Ronald Polite III, continuing to hit key shots and maintain their cushion.
Riders entered the final quarter trailing 79–72, with all to play for.
Credit: Leicester Riders
Surrey Pull Away Late
Surrey opened the fourth quarter with authority, as Isaiah Small finished a powerful alley-oop to halt Leicester’s momentum.
Riders continued to battle, with Aaron Menzies converting second-chance points and Boardman-Raffet producing a brilliant individual drive to cut the deficit to four midway through the quarter.
Keddy Johnson remained influential, creating opportunities and assisting Ndoukou for a crucial three-pointer as Riders pushed to stay within reach.
Defensively, Nate Martin delivered a huge block to deny Polite III, but Surrey’s offensive consistency ultimately proved decisive.
The visitors pulled away in the closing stages, extending their lead to double digits before closing out a 103–90 victory.
Riders now look ahead to Sunday as they head north to take on the Caledonia Gladiators on the road before hosting Manchester Basketball back on Friday, 17th April. Tickets on sale now via our website.
