Towers look impregnable

Basketball

London Towers head for the New Year with a four-point lead in the Budweiser League, despite taking an early Christmas break.

Leopards provide a London double at the top of the table after Saturday's 92-80 win at Manchester Giants, where the 6ft 9in Kenny Scott scored 19 points on his debut in his latest return from injury.

The Sharks are still in touch and like Leopards are four points behind London. They won 84-75 at Newcastle Comets on Friday.

Bottom of the table Hemel Royals, chasing only their third league win of the season were tied at 83-83 with a minute to play at home to Doncaster Panthers. But Steve Merifield netted two late baskets and then a free throw gave Doncaster the win by five points as Hemel failed to score again.