Clutch shots from Orlando Parker and Dirk Williams helped the London Lions to a 73-66 victory over the Cheshire Phoenix in the quarter finals of the BBL Playoffs.
The Lions came out firing, getting out to a 21-10 lead in the first quarter off the back of 13 points from Justin Robinson but the Phoenix climbed back into the game to be in with a shot in the fourth quarter.
Lions guard Justin Robinson discussed turnovers as a key issue after the game, saying: ‘As a team we have definitely got to be sharper, we have got to move better off the ball. Me and the guys handling the ball have to take care of the ball much better.’
The Lions turned the ball over 17 times allowing for 23 points from turnovers by the Phoenix to help them back into the game.
It was a 2-point game going into the fourth quarter with the Lions keeping the Phoenix at arm’s length until a Mike Mccall 3 pointer gave Phoenix the lead with 4:04 remaining.
Justin Robinson was left injured on the play, forcing him to sit the rest of the game. Jules Dang Akodo checked in for the first time, providing an instant spark, sinking a 3 pointer and a layup.
The Phoenix trailed 66-65 with 1:02 left to play, setting up an enthralling final minute.
Orlando Parker drained a 3 pointer, being fouled in the process, before making the free throw to complete the 4-point play.
Phoenix guard Kahron Ross was then fouled on a 3-point shot, sending him to the line where he hit just 1 of his 3 free throws.
The Lions capitalised up the other end with Dirk Williams hitting a deep 3 with just 1.3 seconds left to give the Lions a 7-point victory in game 1.
Dirk Williams led all scorers with 22 points making 8 out of 15 attempts. Kingsley Okoroh also had a solid game for the Lions, providing strong interior defence and finishing with 9 rebounds and 4 blocks.
Game 2 will be played on Wednesday at 7:30pm and both teams will fancy their chances at progressing to the semi-finals.
(Cover Image: BBL)
Adam Perry - 04/05/2021