Scorchers Crowned Champions at British Basketball All-Stars

Surrey Scorchers defied all odds to win the British Basketball All-Stars Championship.

Creon Raftopoulos’ side defeated Leicester Riders in a nail biting final to claim their first piece of silverware in 10 years.

Having started the tournament with a defeat to Bristol Flyers, Scorchers looked set for a tough afternoon at the Copper Box Arena.

However, a dominant performance against Worcester Wolves appeared to rejuvenate the team, giving them a second chance to make their way to the semi-finals.

Flyers and Scorchers once again faced off under the watchful eyes of the London crowd.

Led by an unstoppable Jordan Williams, Scorchers were able to bounce back from their earlier defeat and overcome their opposition to book their place in the final four.

In next to no time, Scorchers were back on court to face Newcastle Eagles, the winner advancing to the finals of the tournament.

Import Demario Beck proved the key figure for Scorchers in the tie, making several key blocks and offensive rebounds.

Captain Tayo Ogedengbe’s exceptional shooting ability proved too much for the Eagles defence to handle, Scorchers eventually emerging 34-24 winners to book their place in the final.

Having bested London Lions on their home court, Leicester Riders cemented their place as Scorchers’ opposition in the final showdown.

Williams had been putting on a show all night in his home city, and there was no sign of him stopping as he bullied the Riders defence again and again.

Nothing could separate the two sides in normal time, meaning a nerve-wracking overtime period to come.

Despite all the odds, it would be Scorchers who were celebrating at the final buzzer as they closed the game out 36-33.

Following his exceptional performances, Williams was deservedly awarded MVP of the tournament, capping off an incredible night for the 22-year-old.

Having begun the day as underdogs, Scorchers ended it as champions.

Scorchers will now look ahead to their next round of games in the BBL Championship, starting with a game on the road to the Newcastle Eagles. They then return to Surrey Sports Park this Sunday to face the Worcester Wolves, with a hope to repeat the wins from the weekend. To purchase ticket to see Scorchers at home, click here.

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