Teesside’s own Red Lions were crowned Champions of the Teesside International Basketball Tournament at Eston Sports Academy on Sunday following the culmination of 12 games of basketball including some thrilling encounters with Canadian side Edmonton Stormhawks.
Lions finished with a 5-1 win/loss record, 3pts ahead of Edmonton Stormhawks A who were the runners up.
The Most Improved Player for the tournament was awarded to Canadian Augustine Lesarwa from the Stormhawks A. Lesarwa displayed a range of silky moves throughout the event, had a nice finish around the basket and hit some big shots. In addition to his skills, he also showed a maturity and composure with a real understanding of the game.
The Most Valuable Player of the tournament was awarded to English player Charles Copeland who has impressed over both days with his commitment, ability and unselfish play. Copeland collected a record four game MVPs with some impressive stats including 2nd in scoring with 131 points, 3rd in rebounds with 67, 2nd in assists with 10 and 8th in steals with 6.
The All Star MVP was awarded to Josh Thomson who hit a game high 27pts in a victory for the English All Stars. Thomson was one of many Red Lions who impressed throughout the tournament and led the event in assists with 17, 4th in blocks and 9th in rebounding.
All Star Teams
Canada
- Khalid Kalif
- Hoghy Falcao
- Augustine Lesarwa
- Connor Ritchot
- Sophia Blanchette
- Rowyn Kornberger
- Lawrence Aquino
- Begi Khelaia
- Isaac Nanongo
- Nick Imnadze
England
- Josh Thomson
- Charles Copeland
- Caleb Gardner
- Matthias Ruddick
- Kody Durance
- Ben Fox
- Luke Knighton
- Chris Palmer
- Jonathan Wetherley
- Brad Coxon
Taya Johnson was made an honorary All Star after dislocating her elbow at Camp on Thursday.
Full results, team & players stats, photos and game video at www.TeessideLions.com