Banchi’s team beat the Turks thanks to 19 points from Shengelia. Belinelli and Cakoc in the chair. There are 5 consecutive victories in Europe
Virtus, without Hackett due to technical choice, inaugurates the “Virtus Segafredo Arena” this season with a victory. Efes Istanbul beaten 93-81. It is the fifth consecutive victory for Banchi’s team, Bologna is now second in the standings with 5 victories and 1 defeat after 6 days of Euroleague.
THE THREE MUSKETEERS
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The start is lively, scores are scored on both sides. The Bianconeri come out at a distance with Shengelia’s baskets, rebounds and blocks, which create plenty of space for the teammates of the great former Bryant Dunston. The icing on the excellent first quarter of the Black Vs are Belinelli’s baskets from beyond the arc: at 10′ Banchi’s men are ahead 20-18. In the second quarter the pride of the Turks comes out, led by the flames of Beaubois, who offers a sample of his offensive talent. With the Frenchman on their shields and the contribution of Clyburn, Can’s men achieved a 9-0 lead, which Bologna was only able to partially remedy. Shengelia’s excellent second quarter finish brings Virtus back into contact in the 20th minute: 45-41 Efes.
THE SURPRISE
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In the second half Bologna tightened their defense: after the difficulties of the previous period, they returned to fighting possession after possession. Banchi’s team continues to dominate under the basket (they will win the rebounding battle 32-25 at the end of the match) and forces the Turks into many turnovers (there will be 14 in the 40th minute). Virtus breaks the balance with an 11-5 break, the guests freeze in attack. Belinelli, Dobric and Cakoc find the net and the Bianconeri end the third set in control, 69-62. Cacok is the surprise. Having come in to rest Dunston, he took center stage at the start of the fourth quarter: 4 points and above all 5 rebounds for him in almost 3 minutes. Banchi’s men, increasingly in control of the pace of the match, spread, reaching +10 on two occasions (73-63 and 77-67). The low post of Shengelia, best on the pitch with 19 points, and the rotation of men and ball are the keys to the match. It ends 93-81.
November 3 – 11.25pm
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