Joe Lycett, Jaykae and Lady Leshurr join the BBL Trophy final fun

Joe Lycett, Jaykae and Lady Leshurr join the 2024 British Basketball League Trophy Finals fun.

Comedian Joe Lycett was among the thousands of basketball fans who witnessed the thrilling Men’s British Basketball League and the Women’s British Basketball League Trophy Finals at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena on Sunday (January 28).

The Birmingham-born star, who is known for his TV shows such as The Great British Sewing Bee and Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back, was spotted cheering on the teams as they battled for the coveted prize.

The 2024 British Basketball League Trophy Final at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena was part of an incredible festival of basketball, which also featured the Men’s and Women’s Finals and the Slam Dunk Contest.

Fans from across the country generated an electric atmosphere in the ‘Second City’ of British basketball, as they enjoyed the action-packed games and the amazing entertainment lineup.

Birmingham’s very own rap artists Jaykae and Lady Leshurr took centre stage at halftime of the respective finals, showcasing their lyrical prowess with their collection of hits. Jaykae, who has collaborated with artists such as Ed Sheeran, Stormzy and Skepta, performed singles such as Every Country, Moscow and Toothache at halftime of the Women’s Final, which saw the London Lions beat the Essex Rebels 83-67 to win the Trophy for a record fourth straight year.

MOBO Award winner Lady Leshurr, who is best known for her Queen’s Speech series of freestyles, followed suit, taking centre stage to headline at the Men’s Final halftime show. She performed her renowned hits such as Queen’s Speech Ep.5 and Brush Your Teeth, as well as her latest single, Quarantine Speech.

The Men’s Trophy Final was a thrilling contest between the Cheshire Phoenix and the London Lions, who had both topped their groups heading into the Final Four weekend. The Phoenix, who were runners-up in the competition last year, came out on top with a 98-82 victory, claiming their sixth trophy in the club’s history.

The Lions fought hard but could not overcome the Phoenix’s balanced attack, which saw five players score in double figures. The Phoenix’s Quincy Rideau was the standout star, scooping MVP honours after leading with 25 points, 10 rebounds and three assists.

The British Basketball League Trophy Finals was a fitting finale for the festival of basketball, which showcased the best of British basketball and Birmingham’s culture. Here's a look at the stars at the final: