By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
After facing three consecutive losses on the road, Barcelona returned to winning ways away from home, dominating in one of the EuroLeague’s hottest arenas.
Guided by Dario Brizuela, Roger Grimau’s team comfortably defeated Crvena Zvezda in the packed Stark Arena, improving their record to 17-8 with a final score of 76-85 in Belgrade.
Brizuela had an outstanding night, contributing 20 points with a career-high six three-pointers, out of seven attempts, resulting in a PIR of 22.
“We are happy because it’s not easy to play here, and we have played a great game. Playing here is an experience. It’s the second time I’ve done it, and it’s an impressive stadium, a marvel. And if you manage to silence them a bit, total satisfaction,” joked the Barcelona player.
Jan Vesely also delivered an impressive performance with 16 points and eight rebounds, earning a PIR of 20, while Nicolas Laprovittola added 12 points for the winning side.
Despite Nemanja Nedovic’s 21 points for Crvena Zvezda, following his 27-point performance in the win over Valencia, it wasn’t enough. Yago dos Santos contributed 13 points with seven assists, and Joel Bolomboy achieved a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
“Brizuela shot like Steph Curry”
Crvena Zvezda’s head coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos gave the highest possible praise to Brizuela for his terrific shooting performance against his team.
“I emphasized that Barcelona has exceptional individual quality and depth, stating that Crvena Zvezda would not focus on just two or three players because no one should be underestimated. Brizuela shot today like Steph Curry! Perhaps he was open for one or two shots, but in all the others, he was under pressure, with a defender on his hand or next to him,” Sfairopoulos said.
Barcelona’s coach Roger Grimau was obviously satisfied and emphasized the significance of achieving victory in front of the packed Arena, with almost 21,000 fans in attendance.
“I think we played an excellent game. Both in defense and offense. We controlled the game from start to finish, which was demanding, and it was a pleasure to play in such an atmosphere. The victory gains significance for the team because it was achieved in this kind of environment,” said Grimau.
Photo: euroleaguebasketball.net