Despite tough defensive efforts by the Lions, Cheshire guard DiNunno lifted his team to a third straight win with a last-second game winner, and sending the Lions back to losing ways, 86-87.
DiNunno’s clutch night
Late into the fourth quarter the Phoenix staged a comeback, narrowing the margin to within three points. But DiNunno delivered two sets of crucial three-pointers in the closing seconds lifting his team to victory.
With five seconds left on the clock DiNunno put up the shot from beyond the arc using the backboard securing a crucial three-pointer which led to a tough win.
DiNunno provided the winning shot in his second game back in the BBL after playing overseas.
The guard scored an impressive 29 points accompanied by nine assists and five steals in his first game back against Sheffield.
However, the Lions defensive efforts only limited the guard to 10 points shutting him out of the game until the fourth quarter, where performed under pressure proving to be a top clutch player in the league.
Battle of the point guards
Both guards went toe to toe in an all-out point guard battle to see who the top guard was in the league.
Zaire Taylor outscored the Phoenix guard with his impressive finishing skills under pressure as well as his crossover move, leaving defenders in the dust. Zaire Taylor finished with an outstanding double-double, 21 points alongside 11 dimes.
Third quarter strikes again
The Lions entered the game with good intentions displaying them in the first quarter from a superb effort.
Although the Lions led the majority of the game, they were cursed by their third-quarter scoring drought, allowing Cheshire to pave the way for a victory.
Lions fans were given hope with three Lions player scoring magnificently throughout the game and keeping them in it.
Impressive night for Lion’s trio
Forward Navid Niktash led all scorers with 24 points and six rebounds. But it was Rashad Hassan down in the low post that helped keep them in the game, notching a perfect double-double, 24 points and 18 rebounds,
Zaire Taylor thrilled the Copper Box with two important free throws which saw the Lions take the lead by two points. Forward Dll’Jon Allen-Jordan provided Cheshire’s comeback, making shots in the third quarter after the Lions dry spell lifting them to a win.
The Lions are now placed sixth in the table just below the Worcester Wolves who have yet to lose to the Lions.
Update
The London Lions have a win under their belt after defeating the Manchester Giants on the 26th March, 88-96.
Coach Lloyd’s side avoid a losing slump after getting a win against bottom of the table Giants behind an impressive performance from both Zaire Taylor and Rashad Hassan combining for 43 points to go home with the victory.