\n<\/p>\n
Newcastle came into the game hunting their second trophy of the season, having won their eighth SLB Trophy in January.<\/p>\n
Last month, they were runners-up in the European North Basketball League but fell just short in their attempt to add a first European title to their domestic successes.<\/p>\n
Marc Steutel’s side finished the league season fifth in the table, 18 points behind the Riders, and beat last season’s champions London Lions in the semi-finals.<\/p>\n
The Riders overturned a 10-point semi-final, first-leg deficit to beat Sheffield Sharks by 20 points in the return to book their spot in London.<\/p>\n
The final would prove much smoother for Paternostro’s side.<\/p>\n
With the Eagles briefly leading in the opening minute, the Riders took control and built a commanding 12-point lead in the opening quarter.<\/p>\n
By the end of the third quarter that lead had been extended to 20 as the Riders took full control, and they scored 30 points in a clinical 10-minute period as they cruised to victory in the packed O2 for their first championship win for three years.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n