By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
In the first game between these two historical clubs since 2014, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade struggled at moments against Zalgiris Kaunas but still managed to get the second EuroLeague win in a row.
Kevin Punter was the key in the 87-76 win, as he ended the game with 26 points. Former Zalgiris Kaunas player Zach LeDay added 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Mathias Lessort and James Nunnally also scored 10 points each and Dante Exum had 11.
“Any time you win at home, it feels good'”, said Punter. “We were locked in, we closed the game out so I was extremely happy about that. We closed the game out properly and won. There are always going to be ups and downs, the key to basketball is trying to maintain those ups and downs and keep them as low as possible. We did that tonight. We didn’t turn the ball over, we were patient and smart.”
The Lithuanian team couldn’t get another surprising victory after getting the upset against FC Barcelona. Keenan Evans came close to a losing effort double-double, as he had 16 points and 9 assists.
To be exact Partizan was leading by three (60-57) entering the last period and Ignas Brazdeikis tied the score at 60 with a goal foul.
Partizan coach Zeljko Obradovic admitted: “There were a lot of ups and downs in the second half. We started to play slowly, not recognizing their switch defense. When we started to move the ball and play faster, the result was the end of the game which was excellent. Congratulations to my players and also the incredible people who support us. But also I believe Zalgiris played very well.”
Zalgiris couldn’t tie the score again and Partizan which answer with five quick points (65-60) kept the lead until the end.
As Zalgiris Kaunas head coach Kazys Maksvytis said: “We started the game badly, gave them a plus 10. Then we came back into the game but we made some simple mistakes. I’m happy that we fought until the end, but we did things that cost us the win.”
Both teams share a 2-3 record in the Turkish Airlines Standings.
PHOTO CREDIT: Turkish Airlines EuroLeague