By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
Building a double-digit advantage in the second half proved enough for Partizan Mozzart Bet at the bottom end of the double-game week in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague.
Legendary tactician Zeljko Obradovic guided his side to the 89-74 victory versus ALBA Berlin on Friday.
Coming out of a close game in the first half, an improved showing after the break of the Round 9 contest drew up a 4-5 record in the Regular Season.
“We said in halftime that it is necessary to change some things in defense and also to play smart,” explained Obradovic, “We attacked pretty well, and because of this we won.”
Fueled by the support of the Stark Arena crowd, Aleksa Avramovic registered a team-high 20 points, despite being held to 1/7 from beyond the arc. “I am very tired,” he reacted to completing yet another demanding two-game week.
Danilo Andjusic tucked in 4/7 triples and followed with 13 of his 16 points in the second half. More of the same from Zach LeDay with ten of his 14 points after halftime.
Carrying seven consecutive double-digit PIR showings in Europe’s premier club continental competition, James Nunnally had a team-high 21. The experienced forward combined 14 points with six assists. “Just being locked in. Playing hard,” he responded on what led to the win.
For the visitors, Johannes Thiemann packing 21 points was not enough to prevent falling to 1-8. His 25 PIR was a game-high. Khalifa Koumadje with eight points and 11 rebounds had a PIR of 23.
“They are a very good team, a talented team. They run the court very well. Johannes Thiemann is one of the best fours in Europe,” Avramovic praised ALBA and specifically the 2023 FIBA World Cup gold medalist.
“I am proud of my players. They never gave up,” said the losing head coach Israel Gonzalez.
“I have a very young team. We are working,” added the Spanish play-caller, “With the work the guys are doing, I hope we will have the reward in the future.”
New dad and more
Welcoming a baby on his 27th birthday, Justin Bean was unavailable for the German side. Matteo Spagnolo sat out as well. Marcus Eriksson (right foot) and Elias Rapieque right hand) are not yet cleared to play.
Besides Kevin Punter (leg), Balsa Koprivica (illness) missed a second straight game and Alen Smailagic (illness) was also ruled out by Partizan. Punter has been sidelined for three weeks but is nearing a return.
More action
Next for the Belgrade outfit is a Monday road game versus Cedevita Olimpija. From Ljubljana and possibly jumping to 6-2 in AdmiralBet ABA League to the new EuroLeague challenge against Anadolu Efes in Sinan Erdem Dome next Friday.
Round 10 of EuroLeague’s Regular Season sends the Albatrosse at Real Madrid next Thursday. Hosting Syntainics MBC on Sunday shapes an opportunity for a 7-1 start in Germany’s easyCredit BBL.
Photo Credit: EuroleagueBasketball.net