In the framework of the EuroLeague play-in, Virtus defeated Anadolu Efes 67:64 at the “Sinan Erdem” arena.
The home team was without Erten Gazi, while the guests traveled to Istanbul without Devontae Cacok.
Will Clyburn decided to don the heroic mantle right from the start, reflected best in the fact that he scored the first 17 points for Anadolu Efes. Later in the game, Ercan Osmani joined him, but the double-digit lead they gained was quickly squandered due to a lack of more inspired players. Marco Belinelli and Tornike Shengelia shone on the other side, leading Virtus to a 9:0 run, bringing them within one possession before the break – 23:21.
Tomislav Mijatovic’s team’s offensive arsenal faltered in the second half, allowing Awudu Abass to lead his team to a comeback – 28:27. The rest of the first half saw poor shooting performances from both teams, evidenced by Virtus winning the second quarter by 36:35. Despite everything, the Turkish team went into halftime slightly happier, holding a “half-point” lead – 36.35.