Final Score: ULT 41 – Lightning 40 (OT)

ULT edged Lightning by a single point in a dramatic overtime victory to claim the LincolnBasketball CVL 2025 title. This game wasn’t just close – it was a perfect summary of the season: competitive, intense, and unpredictable.

Lightning had reached the final after their own one-point thriller against Tropics in the semi-finals, and they brought that same determination here. But ULT – built on depth, balance, and resilience – found the grit to win one final battle.

A Game of Margins

Statistically, this was a fascinating clash. ULT shot an outstanding 56.7% from the field, compared to Lightning’s 29.7%. Despite this, Lightning stayed in the game through sheer hustle, converting 16 of 18 free throws (88.9%) to keep the scoreboard ticking.

ULT dominated in close-range scoring, hitting 63.6% of their two-point attempts, while Lightning leaned heavily on their ability to draw fouls and capitalise at the line. ULT’s shooting advantage was almost undone by 25 team fouls, but their defensive structure held firm in the final moments.

Standout Performers

T. Brazauska (ULT) – The Finals MVP. 17 points on 7-12 shooting, including two clutch threes. He was clinical, composed, and led by example on both ends.

M. Grigius (ULT) – A perfect 3-4 from the field, grabbing five rebounds and two assists. Every possession he touched counted.

Z. Masidlauskas & Lukas (ULT) – Quiet on the scoring sheet but made crucial defensive contributions. Lukas had 3 rebounds and a steal; Masidlauskas created second chances with effort on the glass.

Rice (Lightning) – Delivered 12 points including two threes, going 4-7 from the floor. One of Lightning’s most reliable scorers all season, and a key reason they stayed in this game.

L. Carter (Lightning) – Scored 8 points and shot 100% from the free throw line, staying aggressive in traffic.

J. Carter (Lightning) – 8 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals – he fought on both ends and created plays when Lightning needed momentum.

The Overtime Moment

With the score tied at 37 at the end of regulation, both teams entered overtime having given everything. What followed was four minutes of gritty defence, fast breaks, and heart-in-mouth moments. Ultimately, ULT outscored Lightning 4–3 in OT, just enough to claim the trophy.

More Than Just a Final

Packed stands. Loud support. The wider LincolnBasketball community turned out to celebrate what has been a sensational season. Players from other teams, families, friends, and fans filled Deans Sport and Leisure for a brilliant celebration of grassroots basketball.

What’s truly remarkable is how many games this season were decided by fine margins – many by less than five points. While the final standings showed clear leaders and challengers, the games told a different story: the gap between first and last was never as wide as it seemed.

A Championship Earned

ULT were deserving champions – not because the final margin was big, but because of how they navigated adversity and pressure. Their composure, discipline, and teamwork in the most crucial moments saw them over the line.

Lightning, meanwhile, proved they’re a powerhouse in the making. Two consecutive one-point games – one won, one lost – show how close they were to being champions themselves. Their defensive identity and clutch mentality will serve them well going forward.

Looking Ahead

As we close the chapter on this incredible 2024–2025 season, LincolnBasketball focuses on new opportunities. The 3x3 tournaments in 2025 are coming, development sessions continue to grow, and the energy in the community is stronger than ever—it's never too late; join us.