Big win for the Riders as they defeated BA London Lions on the road, 80-84. This game determined the second and third position in the WBBL Championship and playoff ranking.

It was a competitive game from the offset as London Lions grabbed an 8-point lead to finish the first quarter. Out the gate, Leonard and Breen from London were quick to get on the score sheet, whereas the Riders struggled. Holly Winterburn went off with 13 points in the second quarter and reduced the deficit to a 2-point game at the half. A layup from Robb in the third gave Riders their first lead of the game which started a quick run for the visitors. The Missouri-native, Maya Brewer, completed a huge AND-1 in the final leg which sparked a victorious run to solidify a top two spot in the WBBL rankings.

The Lions’ defensive pressure was evident as they forced the Riders to 21 turnovers. However, the Riders protected the rim like their life depended on it with 10 blocks, led by Azania Stewarts’ five. 

Winterburn put up a monster performance with 36 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Whilst for London, Kennedy Leonard led the way with a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds. 

Scorers

Riders: Winterburn 36, Stewart 13, Robb 13, Smith 8, Brewer 7, Januszewska 4, Clark 2, Lappenkuper 1. 

Lions: Leonard 22, Breen 16, Umeh 16, Beckford-Norton 14, Charles 7, Klocker 3, Robinson 2. 

Riders host Sevenoaks tomorrow (24th April 2021) at 4:00pm for the final-game in the regular season. Tune in for a another great game of basketball.