The roster of BA London Lions is taking full shape ahead of WBBL opening weekend after the franchise confirmed the signatures of two European players.

The Lions have swooped for Bulgarian prospect Viktoria Ivanova, who starred in her nations’ gold-medal winning promotion from Division B at the FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship 2019.

She averaged more than 12 points per game and also added 4.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists to showcase her all-around talent. The teenager played for Lokomotiv Stara Zagora in her homeland last year and was one of the leading lights in the NBL.

Meanwhile Lorenza Prospero hails from Italy and has played in the set-up of some leading clubs including Schio and Vicenza.

“I am excited with the potential of both players coming into our team,” said Lions’ play-caller Mark Clark.

“In terms of Viktoria, her ability to get to the hoop and her work rate on the glass will be a huge asset. I am also so pleased to bring Lorenza to Lions because her experience and her IQ leading the forward line will be huge for us.”

Meanwhile Ivanova had the reference of Diana Naydenova-Goryanova to take information from and revealed the former EuroCup Women and Lions’ veteran was an influence.

She stated: “I am so happy to come to London and it helped to talk to Diana about my options.

“I really do believe I can now help Lions compete even more,” added Ivanova.