Nike IJT Belgrade Game Report: Union Olimpija 77-83 Hemofarm
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Hemofarm Stada proved that Serbia really is the home of basketball as they defeated a gritty Union Olimpija Ljubljana side 77-83. In a game that Hemofarm build leads in each quarter, Union Olimpija never went away, making a run of their own to keep the game close. In the end the deeper bench of the team from Vrsac proved key as they ended up on the winning side. Nemanja Arnatuovic led Hemofarm with 28 points, 3 assists and 4 steals, whilst Mirza Sarajlija was the best player for Union Olimpija, tallying 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. The first quarter proved to be as equal as it can get. Both teams made small runs on their way to a 17-18 score, Sarajlija making some tough baskets in the process for Union Olimpija. In the second quarter Hemofarm began to generate some easier baskets starting with their defense, and Arnautovic was the main beneficiary, scoring six straight points on his way tWo 15 at the half, leading all scorers when the score read 28-37. Within 3 minutes after the break, Hemofarm had built a sixteen point lead (29-45), forcing Coach Kolman to call timeout. Union Olimpija came back into the game, thanks to some good inside play and a 2-3 zone on defense. The gap was still thirteen points at the end of the third, 48-61. This gap proved to be seven points too many as Union Olimpija were able to win the fourth quarter 29-22, leaving them with slim hopes of reaching the semifinals. The 77-83 final was thanks to their perserverance throughout. Hemofarm will now qualify for the semifinals with a win this evening against Fenerbahce, whilst Union Olimpija finish the group phase 1-1 and wait on the outcome of the last game in Group D - a Fenerbahce win could squeeze them in.
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Euroleague.net
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