By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
In his second game after his return from injury, Tornike Shengelia posted 20 points, six rebounds, and six assists as Virtus Bologna beat Bayern Munich 82 – 72 on the road.
The Italian side became just the second team this season to win at SAP Arena after Panathinaikos Athens.
“I’m not the man of the match, I’m part of the team of the match,” Shengelia said.
“It wasn’t easy. I just had one full practice with the team. Not easy for me or for the coaches to give me this trust. I want to thank them for this and thank my teammates. I’m out there giving my best. I’m happy we got the win.”
Devin Booker stood out from Bayern with 21 points and eight rebounds as the Germans dropped to a 12-10 record and the 10th spot of the standings, while Virtus had just a 7-15 record.
Virtus fighting until the end
Bayern started the game leading 16-6, with Booker scoring 11 points. However, Virtus closed the first period up by two (20-18) after a 14-2 partial score.
Things got even slower in the second period. The score of the quarter was just 15-14 for Virtus which led 35-32 at halftime.
Despite Bayern’s efforts, Virtus managed to always retain an advantage and push back every effort by the hosts to turn the game around. With the score 57 – 61, Dusko Ivanovic’s players made a 2-10 run but their opponents responded to approach 69 – 71.
Shengelia then scored six unanswered points and Virtus entered crunch time at a distance that was proven big enough to give them the victory.
Photo credit: EuroLeague