Newcastle Eagles thank fans for their support this season

For the Newcastle Eagles, tonight wasn't about dwelling on missing the top spot of the British Basketball League, it was about putting on a good show for their loyal fans - and they turned out in their thousands.

The squad headed into the game against top-of-the-table London Lions with their heads held high, to finish the end of a great season in front of a home crowd at the new Eagles Community Arena.

Although the Lions secured a win tonight, meaning they've won the league, all is not lost. The Eagles secured a top-three finish in the BBL for the 15th consecutive season. The club remains the most successful basketball franchise in British history, with 24 trophies and counting.

At the heart of the club, is the Eagles Community Foundation. Players and coaches work in local communities across Tyneside, Wearside and South East Northumberland, to encourage participation in the sport.

Tonight, primary schools from across the region played in the Hoops 4 Health competition, ahead of the BBL match.

We caught up with the teams from Glynwood Primary School and Oakfield Junior School from Gateshead. Both knocked out their opponents to get to the final, getting the opportunity to play on the Eagles court at half-time, in front of 3,000 fans.

Amy Sutton asked if they had enjoyed the experience so far.

Also making it onto the main court were pupils from Dunston Hill Community Primary School in Gateshead.

Their mixed-squad of cheerleaders entertained the crowd as players warmed up on the court. We spoke to the squad, after their performance.

For Managing Director Paul Blake, the family-friendly feel of the Eagles games is what makes the atmosphere so enjoyable and what the club has always aspired to achieve.

He says regardless of tonight's result, the squad want to have a "good push towards the playoffs".

Final score: Newcastle Eagles 80 - 90 London Lionswww.newcastle-eagles.com