After a 99-88 triumph over the Plymouth Raiders on Friday (10th March) in the BBL Championships, the London Lions finally returned to winning form at the Copper Box arena and have a week off before their next game at home facing, Cheshire on 24th March.
Confident Lions
With less than ten games left in the regular season, the Lions sit comfortably in a playoff position in fifth place behind the Sheffield Sharks. Despite the club targeting a higher spot, a move into the top four could prove to be difficult. However, guard Alex Owumi believes otherwise:
“I think top four is realistic. We don’t have too many games left but we’ve got a few games against teams near the bottom. I think Sheffield has a harder road than we do for the last eight/nine games so I think we’re good for fourth place if we want it.”
Owumi tallied an impressive triple-double in the win against the Raiders with 15 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. The sharp-shooter was pleased with his personal performance but was more concerned about getting the all-important win:
“It was great, it’s good to get a win – that’s the most important thing. You know we’re still going for top four and we have to win as many games as possible going into the playoffs, so I’m very happy with the result”
Old Blood
Out of the eight teams currently occupying playoff spots, the Lions have defeated every squad bar the Worcester Wolves, which conveniently, happens to be Owumi’s previous ball club. So, it was no surprise when the guard mentioned of his eagerness to get a win against the club when they face off next month:
“We gotta’ beat Worcester, that’s my old team. I’m looking forward to that game on the 14th – I’ve got it pinpointed, but you know I think if we play like we did tonight we’re good against anyone.”
With nine vital matches left in this tense BBL Championship run to the playoffs, the Lions hope to finish off their last stretch of games unscathed of injuries and fatigue in the hope of heading into the playoffs with an in-form and focused squad.
Aiming High
Though a fight for a higher playoff position may prove to be strenuous, Owumi isn’t worried about the transition into the post season: “I’m looking forward to the playoffs, it’s been a long season but I think everything will be good and smooth, I can’t wait!”
Next up for Owumi and his Lions is a matchup against 10th place Cheshire Phoenix who will be looking to make one late final surge for a playoff spot.