By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Olimpia Milano seems to have returned into the path of victories for good. After beating Anadolu Efes last week, the Italian team clinched second consecutive Euroleague victory imposing its rule on Baskonia 88 – 76.
Rakim Sanders paced the winners with 19 points, while Ricky Hickman added 13 and Krunoslav Simon 10. In general, almost every player that entered the floor contributed for Milano that showcased a diverse offensive pluralism, in total contrast with their opponents.
The almost epic efforts of Shane Larkin (21 points, 9 assists, 4 rebounds, 4 steals, 36 PIR) and the above solid, for one more time, game of Johannes Voigthmann (16 points, 6 rebounds) weren’t enough for the Basques.
Coach Repesa’s players pretty much ran the show during the match, since the two squads were close only during the first seven minutes. Milano first had an 13-2 outbust to establish a double-digit lead 27 – 17 and then expanded its advantage with a 12-2 partial score for the 41 – 23 in the mid of the second period.
Baskonia was unable to match their opponents’ energy levels, failing to reduce their deficit enough to become truly competitive for the remainder of the game. Milano ultimately almost cruised to the win, usually holding a difference around 15 points.