Virtus vs Asvel: Analysis and Prediction – Virtus will play at home against Asvel in the EuroLeague Round 22.
Virtus vs Asvel Odds
Virtus Team News
After an excellent start to the season, Virtus experienced a dip in form. Prior to the match against Brindisi, they suffered three consecutive defeats, but they bounced back with a convincing 103:76 victory over Brindisi. In the EuroLeague, they currently hold the third position with a record of 14 wins and seven losses.
Virtus has arguably been the most pleasant surprise in the EuroLeague this season. Before the season began, few believed they would be at the top after 21 rounds, but despite an evident decline in form, the results speak for themselves. Given the primarily experienced roster, a high number of games in a short period has taken its toll, and fatigue is catching up with Virtus. In addition, injuries pose significant challenges for coach Luka Banchi, who is doing an excellent job. While Jordan Mickey recently returned to the team, the absence of Ognjen Dobric, Tornike Shengelia, and Devontae Cacok is certainly a concern.
For the Bologna-based club, it is crucial to quickly return to the winning track in the EuroLeague, considering the potential cost of a misstep at the end of the regular season. It seems that the opponent for overcoming this crisis is ideal, so it is imperative for Virtus to maintain high energy levels from the first minute and prevent Asvel from gaining momentum.
Asvel Team News
Asvel has faced significant turbulence throughout the season, having already changed two coaches. Despite securing two victories in the EuroLeague against Zalgiris and Crvena Zvezda, it seemed that the team would find stability, only to be brought back down to earth by Alba Berlin. Nevertheless, before their away game in Italy, they defeated Cholet 100:95. In the EuroLeague standings, they currently occupy the second-to-last position with four wins and 17 losses.
The main issue for Asvel is undoubtedly inconsistency. The two wins were expected to serve as a platform for better performances, but they experienced a steep decline in the following round. Asvel’s shooting percentages have varied throughout the season, particularly struggling in the backcourt. Aside from shooting, another significant challenge for Asvel is their defense. Rotations have been poor even after four months into the season, partly understandable due to frequent coaching changes. The debut of Deshaun Thomas in the EuroLeague could potentially address some of these issues.
Certainly, the victory against Cholet has boosted their confidence, helping the team move past the defeat to Alba Berlin. However, it is clear that they enter this match as underdogs and will need to deliver an excellent performance on both ends of the court if they intend to stay competitive against Virtus.
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Virtus vs Asvel H2H
In the first encounter of the season between these two teams, we witnessed a thrilling finish that ended in Virtus’ favor with a score of 84:87. Mike Scott missed a three-pointer for overtime, while Isaiah Cordinier’s earlier points proved crucial in securing the victory for Virtus.
Absences and Injuries
For Virtus in this game, Devontae Cacok, Ognjen Dobric and Tornike Shengelia will be out. As for Asvel, there is uncertainty regarding the availability of Nando De Colo.
Virtus vs Asvel Prediction
Tip-off Time: Thursday, 18.01.2024, 20:30 CET
Prediction: Virtus -6.5
Odds: 1.71
Sportsbook: 22Bet
*Odds are active at the time the article is published
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