By Cesare Milanti/ info@eurohoops.net
Reggio Emilia, Italy – In the first European game played in PalaBigi since the 23rd of March 2018, Reggio Emilia got stunned by AEK’s dominant display. The Greek team imposes itself 73-84 with an impressive collective performance.
Alexander Madsen was the turning element for Ilias Kantzouris’ side, scoring 17 points and capturing 7 rebounds off the bench. The Finnish big was one of four AEK players in double digits, alongside Tim Frazier (10 p., 5 r., 6 a.), Cameron McGriff (12 p., 5 r.), and Akil Mitchell (10 p., 9 r.).
Veteran point guard and Reggio Emilia’s captain Andrea Cinciarini was the best of his team, ending with a double-double of 16 points and 11 assists. Most of them came to the newcomer Sacar Anim, who closed with 14 points, and DJ Funderburk (10 p.).
Kassius Robertson, who scored 19 points in the 84-88 away victory against Bonn in Round 1, closed with 11 but with a quiet performance. Mikael Hopkins had 12 points and 7 rebounds, but most of them came in the last minutes of the game when the guests slowed down.
After a pretty balanced first quarter (19-18), AEK got the upper hand before halftime (36-51). The points scored from turnovers (10 vs 21) and off the bench (10-32) were decisive. The 25-17 partial by Reggio Emilia in the fourth quarter wasn’t enough.
With this win, the first one after a seven-away game losing streak in the BCL, AEK goes 1-1 in Group B after losing in Round 1 against Pinar Karsiyaka. After Bonn’s victory against the Turkish powerhouses earlier in the day, all teams are now tied with a 1-1 record.
Post-game press conference:
PHOTO CREDIT: Basketball Champions League