LANCASHIRE Spinners defeated Leicester Warriors 78-65 to remain perfect in the National Trophy on Saturday, writes Allen Gunn.

The Bury-based basketball club was boosted by the re-emergence of Andre Gayle who contributed nine points in the win.

Entering the game, the guard had been shooting just 17 per cent (2-of-12) from three-point range but was three-of-four from distance against Leicester, including back-to-back conversions in the first quarter.

“It’s been a struggle,” Gayle said. “But when I see my shot drop it gives me a confidence that when I’m on the floor I know I can contribute.”

Spinners – who improved to 4-0 in pool play – maintained a 21-19 lead after being outscored 11-6 over the final three minutes in the opening quarter.

Forward Mike Bernard made a strong play at the rim, which gave Lancashire a 35-28 lead and forced Leicester into a second timeout with 2:56 before halftime.

The Warriors (1-5) recorded four points out of the timeout but Spinners swung the momentum back in their favour scoring six-straight points to carry a 43-32 lead into the break.

That advantage would grow to its largest at 21-points as Warriors were held to just one field goal to open the second half.

“At one point we were five points down and we turned around and it was 20-point game,” said Leicester forward Leome Francis.

His team would cut the lead to 12-points but Spinners closed the final 90 seconds of the period on a 5-0 run to lead 62-45.

Hopkins added, “Whenever the game became scrappy, it was when we lost control of the tempo and it was our doing. But overall, I’m really happy with our performance.”

Francis had 21 points and 10 rebounds in the loss, which keeps Leicester winless in the competition.