London Lions crowned EuroCup Women champions

LONDON (United Kingdom) - London Lions made history by conquering the EuroCup Women crown to become the first British team to win a European title.

Having lost the away leg to Besiktas in Istanbul, Lions turned the tables around with an 81-70 win in front of a passionate home crowd at the Copper Box for a 149-145 triumph on aggregate.

A close contest from start to finish, Holly Winterburn swung the tie in favor of the hosts with a clutch go-ahead three-pointer with 15 seconds left to increase their lead to nine points on the night, with Megan Gustafson extending the advantage to double figures from the free-throw line.

Karlie Samuelson was named Finals MVP after averaging 17.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and an efficiency of 17.0 in the two title-deciding fixtures.

She scored a team-high 19 points on 7-of-10 shooting in the decisive second leg, with Gustafson also playing a key role with 18 points and 7 rebounds rebounds. Temi Fagbenle chipped in with 17 points and 8 boards.

Dana Evans struggled from the field, but finished with 17 points and 8 assists in a losing effort for Besiktas, as Mihaela Lazic added 16 points.

Having enjoyed a record-breaking season in the competition, the London club dropped just one contest throughout the entire campaign en route to becoming the 17th different club to hoist the trophy in 20 editions. 

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About EuroCup Women
EuroCup Women is the second-tier women's club competition in Europe, with the 2023-24 campaign marking the 22nd edition of the tournament under its current time.

For further information about EuroCup Women, visit EuroCupWomen.basketball or follow us on twitter.com/EuroCupWomen, instagram.com/EuroCupWomen, and youtube.com/FIBA.