By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Extending the undefeated run early in Italy’s LBA Serie A Regular Season, Virtus Segafredo Bologna took down Dinamo Banco di Sardegna Sassari, 74-69, Saturday.
French wing Isaia Cordinier poured 15 points in the Round 5 contest, falling one shy of his season-high. Marco Belinelli sealed it by sinking a couple of free throws with four seconds left wrapping up a 12-point showing. Mouhammadou Jaiteh chipped in ten points and five rebounds. For the hosts, Ousmane Diop logged 16 points.
The team coached by Sergio Scariolo trailed in single-digits for most of the first half but improved defense after the break to gain control. A 16-5 stretch shaped a five-point advantage late in the third quarter. Distance grew up to ten points in the fourth quarter.
“It took us some time to reach our best, after halftime. Excellent defense in the third quarter. Many players contributing in the offense” noted the Italian tactician. His side was coming off an away win versus Real Madrid Thursday.
Milos Teodosic and Jordan Mickey sat alongside injured Tornike Shengelia (shoulder). Youngster Leo Menalo, dealing with a back issue, was sidelined as well.
After jumping to 5-0 at the domestic level, the Bologna outfit will return to the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season and play at home versus LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne in Round 6 on Thursday. It currently sits at 2-3.
Dropped to 2-3 in the LBA, Piero Bucchi’s side additionally carries an 0-2 record in Group G of the Basketball Champions League Regular Season. It will be seeking to bounce back in France against JDA Dijon Tuesday.
Photo Credit: EuroleagueBasketball.net