7DAYS EuroCup: four home wins in Quarterfinals

Game one of the 7DAYS EuroCup Quarterfinals saw plenty of exciting hoops on display. It was an interesting evening as two clubs built up a sizeable lead heading into next week’s second leg. However, two ties remain very open and indeed anything could happen across all four clashes in seven days’ time. One thing is for sure, it is good to have the EuroCup back after a two-week layoff.

The round showed how potentially important home advantage will be. Each team that played in front of its own fans tonight secured a win.

Lokomotiv Kuban Krasnodar vs. Zenit St. Petersburg, 75-52

In an all-Russian clash, Lokomotiv took charge of this Quarterfinal with a commanding home win over Zenit St. Petersburg. The win gives the club a big lead heading into the second leg, but maybe not quite big enough to think this tie is finished. If Zenit can start hot at home next week, anything could happen. That said, Lokomotiv is now has one firm foot in the semi-finals. Zenit struggled to get into the game and only mustered 22 points in the second half as the hosts run away with the game.

Bayern Munich vs. Unicaja Malaga, 91-82

Bayern Munich drew first blood in its 7DAYS EuroCup tie against Malaga. The Germans used a consistent offensive display to keep the Spanish visitors at arm’s length. The win gives the Bavarian club a nine-point lead to protect when it travels to Malaga for the second leg. The hosts topped 20 points in each frame, including 29 points in the second half. Malaga ultimately paid for a cold first half where the team only dropped 36 points.

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Hapoel Jerusalem vs. Herbalife Gran Canaria Las Palmas, 87-67

Hapoel Jerusalem tamed inform Gran Canaria with an impressive home display. This 20-point victory has left the Spanish team with it all to do at home next week. Jerusalem will be looking to replicate this demolition, but even if not the club is certainly looking to the next round. Gran Canaria actually stole a 16-17 advantage through the first quarter. Hapoel Jerusalem ignited in the second and moved to 64-57 through thirty minutes. The fourth act was pivotal as the hosts maintained their good offensive work, while Gran Canaria crumbled with just 10 points.

Valencia Basket vs. Khimki Moscow Region, 88-82

Valencia’s impervious form continued Tuesday, but the club may be sweating. This win means the Spaniards and winningest EuroCup club has only lost a single game this season. Yet, Khimki will feel with six points the different, it has an excellent chance with home advantage next week. Especially because Alexey Shved remains in excellent touch, plundering another 24 points here. Make no mistake, the second leg is definitely game on!