Deane Williams Returns To London Lions As Champions Keep Core Together

London Lions have confirmed Deane Williams will return for the 2026/27 season, giving the Super League Basketball champions another key piece from their quadruple-winning squad.

The move follows the recent confirmation that Joel Scott is also staying in London, with the Lions moving quickly in the off-season to keep continuity across their frontcourt. Williams was part of the side that won the SLB Championship, Play-offs, Cup and Trophy during a dominant 2025/26 campaign.

Williams played 36 league games for the Lions last season, averaging 8.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists. His versatility and defensive value made him an important part of a team that finished as the league’s strongest defensive unit.

He also contributed in Europe, starting 18 EuroCup games and averaging 8.4 points and 4.2 rebounds as London tested themselves against high-level continental opposition.

The 6ft 9in forward added senior international recognition to his season, earning his first Great Britain cap. Before joining the Lions, Williams had built a wide-ranging career across Europe after coming through the Bristol Flyers programme, with spells in Iceland, France, Germany, Italy and Poland.

For London, the signing is another signal that the club is prioritising stability after a historic domestic sweep. Retaining Williams alongside Scott gives the Lions size, experience and defensive flexibility as they begin shaping the roster for another title push.

General Manager Martynas Purlys praised Williams’ professionalism and said his work ethic, character and contribution on court bring “tremendous value” to the organisation.

With more roster decisions still to come, the Lions’ early business suggests the champions are not looking to reset. Instead, they are trying to keep the foundations of a winning group in place.

Image: generic basketball arena image, CC0 via Flickr/Openverse.