By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
After building up double-digit separation in the third quarter, Zalgiris repelled Rytas and prevailed, 78-67, versus the defending champion of Lithuania’s Betsafe LKL in Zalgirio Arena on Sunday.
The team coached by Andrea Trinchieri moved to 9-2 in the Regular Season of the top-flight division of Lithuania, pushing the visitors to 8-3.
Off a cold streak in recent showings, Ignas Brazdeikis knocked in three triples in the first period, setting the pace for the team located in Kaunas. Coming out of the halftime break, he helped his side rush into a safer advantage. The 25-year-old forward finished with a team-high 16 points behind 5/6 field goals, including four three-pointers.
Packing ten points over the last ten minutes, Serbian import Alen Smailagic posted a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double. Also coming off the bench, Sylvain Francisco was the third double-digit scorer with 11 points. Lonnie Walker IV was held to three points and 0/6 field goals over 20 minutes. For the visitors, Jayvon Graves putting up a game-high 18 points fell shy of a win.
In addition to winning the Basketball Champions League Player of the Week award, Gytis Radzevicius injured his left knee against UnaHotels Reggio Emilia, earlier this week. Before the Vilnius outfit resumed the domestic campaign, the 29-year-old forward was ruled out for the next two weeks. Lukas Lekavicius was out for Zalgiris, joining Tomas Dimsa (shoulder surgery) on the sidelines.
STANDINGS: Zalgiris 9-2, Rytas 8-3, Wolves Twinsbet 7-3, Neptunas 6-5, 7bet-Lietkabelis 6-5…
Photo Credit: EuroLeagueBasketball.net