Playoff Champions: OUR YEAR!
The 2022-23 domestic basketball season in the U.K. has finally ended, with the London Lions’ men’s and women’s teams sitting at the apex simultaneously for the first time in the club’s collective history.
This was a gruelling season that saw both teams overcome a multitude of injuries, several personnel changes and achieve historic heights in their respective European competitions. However, with all that in the past, Stella Kaltsidou and Ryan Schmidt’s well-coached squads entered The O2 Arena with one goal: to take home their playoff crowns.
…and that’s precisely what they did!
In front of their adoring fans from across the British capital, the London Lions completed a clean 2-0 sweep of the playoff titles. The women’s team beat arch-rivals the Leicester Riders 57-41, and the men’s team out-paced their nemesis, the Leicester Riders men’s team, 88-80.
Forward Ty Battle once again excelled in her expanded role, recording an excellent 15-rebound, 8-point, 2-steal and 2-assist performance to earn the MVP title. The low-post specialist was also lights out from the free throw line connecting on all four of her attempts.
“It feels great to know that everyone on this team trusts me and everyone else. We have proven to each other that no matter who is on the court, if we all work together, we can do it.”
- Ty Battle
The men’s team avenged their heartbreaking 2022 defeat to claim the capital’s first-ever playoff final crown. Jordan Taylor, who signed with the team in December 2022, dropped 15 points, five rebounds, seven assists and two steals on 55%/66%/75% shooting splits en route to his MVP title.
“It’s probably been the most special year for me because you get to be a part of building something, not only in the country, but this is the most at home I’ve felt in my 11 years overseas.”
- Jordan Taylor
The Lions' collective achievements would have been difficult to achieve if it wasn’t for the fans' love and support both senior teams received throughout the season. The support each fan has shown the team, be it via social media, the fan letterbox or in person, has been vital in helping each player fight through every tough day this season has thrown at them.
Thank you for your love, patience and support!
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