KYLE Carey had the green light down the stretch to get to the basket and he took full advantage as Lancashire Spinners beat Tees Valley Mohawks 86-76 on Saturday.

The small forward scored nine of his 17 points with just over three minutes of the English Basketball League Division One match remaining.

Carey’s points proved crucial to victory as the Spinners beat the basement club to remain seventh in the table.

“I’m playing more composed,” said Carey, who was six-of-12 from the field and a perfect five-of-five at the free throw line.

“It’s knowing when to attack and when to look for my team-mates.”

Alex Roberts had 13 points and Aitor Estrada – starting for a second consecutive game – added 10 as the Spinners recorded back-to-back league wins for the first time since January 9.

Despite a sub-par shooting performance, the Bury-based club found other ways to generate points, including converting 18 off 22 attempts at the foul line.

“Our guys did a good job when we needed it – we asserted ourselves and got enough stops to win,” said coach Neal Hopkins.

“I’m pleased with our grit in what felt like a backs-against-the-wall type game.”

The Spinners let a 49-44 half-time lead slip as Tees Valley started the third quarter on a 6-0 run, but the Mohawks’ advantage was shortlived as Carey skipped through the lane on the ensuing possession.

Tees Valley, who shot just 34 percent, then went three-for-11 from the field over the rest of the quarter, allowing Lancashire to establish a 71-58 lead, highlighted by Zion Tordoff’s three-pointer to end the period.

Carey scored 13 of his points in the second half as Spinners took control.

Lancashire will play five of their next six games at Castle Leisure Centre, beginning on Saturday against Worthing Thunder (5.45pm).