Euroleague Preseason: split fortunes for Galatasaray and Zalgiris
European hoops fans continued to count down to the Euroleague as preseason friendlies continued on Tuesday evening with two contests. Euroleague stalwarts Zalgiris Kaunas kick-started its preparations with a cruising win over 63-91 win over Apu Gsa Udine. Elsewhere, Galatasaray’s preseason took a dent at the hands of Dinamo Sassari, with the Istanbul falling 86-72.
With a new format the 2016/2017 Euroleague promises to get off to a running start and take on the form of a true league. As this is the 60th year expect plenty of festivities throughout the season, and especially during the Final Four, with the location for the showpiece yet to be announced.
Apu Gsa Udine vs. Zalgiris Kaunas, 63-91
Lithuanian champ and for Euroleague winning heavyweight Zalgiris Kaunas had far too much class for Udine and cruised to an easy win. However, after the first quarter it was a hot contest with both teams tied on 19 points. Soon Zalgiris started to work the inside and pulled away for the remainder of the game. Brock Motum led the win with 17 points, Arturas Milaknis made 4 of 5 (80%) three pointers for 14 points, Antanas Kavaliauksas was good for 11 points and 8 rebounds and Lukas Lekavicius added 10 points.
Dinamo Sassari vs. Galatasaray Istanbul, 86-72
With home floor advantage, Sassari outlasted Galatasaray. The Turkish club was assured of its Euroleague berth this season after winning the Eurocup during 2015/2016. However, here the Istanbul club was humbled in Italy. After opening a 24-14 lead in the first quarter, the hosts rarely looked back, despite a late Galatasaray rally. Darius Johnson Odom grabbed 20 points and 8 assists, while Brian Sacchetti matched the total for Dinamo. Justin Dentmon paced Galatasaray with 18 points, Alex Tyus hit 14 points and 8 rebounds and Austin Daye also scored 14.