By Ishaan Sharma, MBA2026
On the 23rd of November 2024, London Business School hosted a historic event for more than 800 students that will be remembered as one of the most vibrant and competitive moments: our first Battle of the Streams (BoS). Initiated and organised with flair by the Student Association, BoS transformed the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre into a battleground of talent, teamwork, and triumph. If LBS had its version of the Olympics, this was it—and it was nothing short of spectacular.
What makes BoS unique?
Battle of the Streams is not your average competition. It’s a high-octane contest where streams across LBS programmes such as MBA, MiM, MiF, MaM, MFA and Sloan face off in a thrilling array of sports and games. The competition spans traditional sports such as Basketball, Football, Cricket, and Badminton, and mental showdowns such as Chess, Poker, and Catan. Each game was played with intense passion and skill, with every point and move contributing to the overall score. Points from every event are tallied, and the stream with the highest score claims ultimate bragging rights. This year’s champions? MBA Stream E, roaring to victory, leaving an indelible mark as the inaugural winners of BoS.
BoS Kick Off
From dawn, the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre was abuzz. Volunteers arrived at 6 AM, braving the early chill to set the stage for a day of fierce but friendly competition. By 8 AM, teams began streaming in, adorned in vibrant colours, from MBA Stream A’s bold red to MiM Stream D’s sophisticated white. Wristbands were distributed, and captains rallied their teams, setting the tone for a day of high-energy action. The agenda was meticulously planned, with events spread across both indoor arenas and outdoor pitches. Basketballs thudded on the courts, chess pieces clacked on boards, and football players strategized on the sprawling green fields. It wasn’t just sports; it was a carnival of LBS spirit.
Moments that mattered for me
Stepping back onto the basketball court after years brought a rush of nostalgia and excitement. Having competed in zonal-level basketball tournaments, the experience of playing again felt like reconnecting with a cherished part of myself—both a reminder of past triumphs and a thrilling return to the game I love. The adrenaline, the team huddles, the deafening cheers from our stream—it was as if time stood still, and we were all playing for something bigger than ourselves. Every basket scored wasn’t just a point on the scoreboard but a testament to our teamwork and resilience. Beyond the basketball court, every game had its own stories of grit and glory. Chess players huddled over intense matches, showcasing strategic brilliance. Catan tables buzzed with negotiations and last-minute moves. On the football pitch, players sprinted with unmatched zeal, embodying the essence of BoS—passion, pride, and unity. Each participant had their own unique experience, but we all shared in the collective spirit of the day.
A Day to Remember
Adding to the vibrancy of the day were the amenities and initiatives that showcased the heart of LBS. A photo booth captured stream pride, with students posing for memories they’ll cherish for years. Booths set up by the Volunteers Club and Speak Out Week reminded everyone of the school’s commitment to community and awareness. And when hunger struck, the venue’s catering ensured every dietary preference was met, from hearty meals to refreshing drinks. But the true heroes of the day were the cheering squads from every stream. Their unwavering support and infectious enthusiasm ensured that no player felt alone. The solidarity was palpable, with students rallying for their streams, staying from dawn to dusk in unparalleled support.
Voices from the day
The success of BoS resonated deeply across the LBS community. In the words of Zhen Ren Teo, President of the Student Association (SA):
“The idea behind creating Battle of the Streams was to use sports as a platform to unite students from all LBS programmes, fostering closer bonds, camaraderie, and a shared sense of pride in our school. As part of the SA, our goal this year is to cultivate a greater sense of community and enrich the student experience beyond the classroom, and this event perfectly embodies that mission. I’m immensely proud of the incredible efforts of the Battle of the Streams Organising Committee, who brought this vision to life.”
Our LBS Executive Director of Degree Programmes & Student Experience, Jane Charlton, echoed the sentiment, reflecting on the significance of such a monumental day:
“The inaugural battle of the streams has been a huge success. This initiative not only celebrates the spirit of competition but also serves as a platform for students to forge deeper connections across programmes, promoting collaboration and unity within the LBS community. It embodies the values of teamwork and inclusivity that define our institution”
Representing the triumphant Stream E, Ishaan Sharma from MBA26 reflected on the moment of victory:
“Winning the first-ever Battle of the Streams was a surreal experience. It wasn’t just about the points or the title; it was about the incredible journey we had together as a team. From cheering each other on to pushing our limits on the field, the bonds we’ve built will last far beyond this event. Stream E brought their A-game, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved together.”
A legacy begins
As the sun set at the venue, the first chapter of Battle of the Streams ended. But this isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning of a tradition that promises to grow bigger, better, and more exhilarating with each passing year. The roar of MBA Stream E’s victory, the camaraderie shared on and off the fields, and the countless memories forged are all testaments to the success of this flagship event. For those there, BoS wasn’t just a competition but a defining moment in their LBS journey. And for those who weren’t, one thing is sure: you won’t want to miss it next year. Here’s to the triumphs, the friendships, and the unyielding spirit of Battle of the Streams. Let the games continue!
If you’re curious to learn more about the Battle of the Streams, don’t hesitate to reach out! You can connect with me at isharma.mba2026@london.edu or Zhen Ren Teo at zteo.mba2025@london.edu . As a part of LBS Student Association, we’d be delighted to share insights and stories about this incredible LBS event.
Official results – Battle of the Streams 2024
| Rank | Stream | Final points tally |
| 1 | MBA Stream E | 100 |
| 2 | MBA Stream C | 95 |
| 3 | MiF | 88 |
| 4 | MBA Stream A | 78 |
| 5 | MBA Stream B | 76 |
| 6 | MBA Stream F, exchange students, Sloan, EMBA & PHDs | 73 |
| 7 | MaM | 70 |
| 8 | MiM Stream B | 67 |
| 9 | MiM Stream D | 50 |
| 10 | MBA Stream D | 49 |
| 11 | MiM Stream C | 33 |
| 12 | MiM Stream A | 29 |
| 13 | MFA | 22 |