The London Lions have continued to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2026/27 Super League Basketball season, announcing the return of Monique Esbrand, Sara Ahmadpour, Macy Spinks, and Shantell Ayton, alongside the signings of Dami Adeyinka, Veronica Iweanya, and Sophie Khalaf.
The seven players bring a combination of leadership, experience, homegrown talent, athleticism and versatility as the Lions continue to build an exciting roster for the new campaign.
Monique Esbrand Returns
Returning for a third consecutive season, the London-born guard brings defensive intensity, leadership and experience after averaging 6.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.3 steals last season. Read more here.
Dami Adeyinka Signs
Newham native Dami Adeyinka joins the Lions after developing at Barking Abbey, playing at Quincy University, and most recently competing in Spain with CB Arxil. Her speed and defensive energy add another dimension to the backcourt. More on this signing here.
Sara Ahmadpour Returns
After appearing in every game last season, Ahmadpour returns to the Lions following a campaign in which she averaged 4.2 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists while balancing her basketball career with studies at the University of East London. Read all about it.
Macy Spinks Returns
The Lions’ captain returns for her third straight season, bringing leadership, composure and experience after averaging 3.4 points and 2.1 assists during the 2025/26 season. More on that signing here.
Veronica Iweanya Signs
The Nigerian centre joins the Lions after five seasons with the Bristol Flyers in WNBL Division 1, where she averaged 9.5 points and 13.4 rebounds last season to earn WNBL Division 1 All Imports Team honours. She also impressed while representing the Lions during the Hoopsfix Pro-Am Summer League. Read all about it.
Sophie Khalaf Signs
Forward Sophie Khalaf arrives from Brent Bulls after averaging 13.2 points and 8.4 rebounds in WNBL Division 1. Having also represented the Lions during the Hoopsfix Pro-Am Summer League, she adds athleticism and versatility to the frontcourt. Read more.R
Shantell Ayton Returns
Ayton returns for her second season with the Lions, bringing defensive intensity, energy and competitiveness to the backcourt as she looks to build on a promising first year with the club. Full story here.
With a strong core returning and exciting new talent arriving, the London Lions continue to build towards the 2026/27 season. Stay tuned to the club’s official channels for further roster announcements and season updates.