On Sunday, 19th January 2025, Bexley Tigers Basketball Club hit the road for an exciting adventure to the Copper Box Arena in Stratford, where over 120 players, parents, and club supporters gathered to watch the London Lions take on Leicester Riders in an epic professional showdown. It was a club day out like no other, and for many of our young players, it was their first time witnessing live professional basketball.
We packed two full coaches with enthusiastic Tigers, ranging from 8-year-olds to 18-year-olds. The journey from the London Borough of Bexley to Stratford was filled with anticipation, laughter, and plenty of basketball talk as the kids buzzed with excitement about what they were about to experience.
An Action-Packed Game
The game did not disappoint! The London Lions put on a clinic, taking down the league-leading Leicester Riders in a commanding 91-71 victory. The energy in the arena was palpable as the Lions dominated on both ends of the court. Former GB international Ovie Soko dazzled with a 16-point, 11-rebound double-double, while Aaryn Rai contributed 17 points and 10 rebounds to seal the win. The Lions’ incredible teamwork, sharp shooting, and relentless defense were on full display, and our players soaked up every moment.
It wasn’t just about the big plays and slam dunks; our young Tigers got to see firsthand the discipline, hustle, and camaraderie required at the top level. Watching professional players communicate on the court, execute plays, and remain composed under pressure was an inspiring experience for everyone.
Inspiration for the Next Generation
The trip was much more than just a game; it was a chance for our players to dream bigger and believe in their own potential. Seeing professional athletes perform at such a high level motivated many of them to work harder in training and strive to improve their game.
Several players commented on how seeing a live game changed their perspective. One of our U14 players said, “It was amazing to watch players like Ovie Soko in real life. I learned so much about positioning and teamwork just by watching how they moved on the court.”
For our youngest players, the night was pure magic, the thrill of being part of a roaring crowd will no doubt stay with them for years to come.
A Community United by Basketball
Trips like this are what Bexley Tigers Basketball Club is all about—bringing people together, building memories, and inspiring the next generation of players. It was heartwarming to see players, parents, and coaches bonding and sharing their love for the game. Moments like these reinforce the importance of creating opportunities beyond the court.
We’d like to give a huge thank you to all the parents, players, and volunteers who helped make this trip possible. The Copper Box Arena may have been the setting, but the true magic came from the Bexley Tigers family, who showed once again what it means to be part of our club.
What’s Next?
With this unforgettable experience in the books, our players are more motivated than ever to bring their best to the court in training and future games. Who knows? One day, we may be heading back to the Copper Box to watch one of our own Tigers on the big stage!
Want to join the action? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s a place for you at Bexley Tigers. Visit bexleytigers.co.uk/play and start your basketball journey today!
