Real Madrid takes 2-0 lead in ACB semi-finals

Game 2 of the ACB semi-finals saw Real Madrid rally past Valencia at home (79-66). Consequently, the “Whites” went up 2-0 in the series and are now one step away from the Finals.

Valencia was up 24-34 in the second quarter. But, the “Whites” closed the first half on a 18-2 run, being in front by six at halftime (42-36).

After that, the hosts never looked back; they extended their lead to 19 points (77-58), cruising to an easy victory in the ACB semi-finals.

Four players scored in double figures for the winners. Moreover, Sergio Llull led the way with a game-high 13 points.

On the other hand, Mike Tobey and Bojan Dubljevic posted 12 points apiece for the losing squad.

The ACB semi-finals series now moves to the home-court of Valencia. Game 3 takes place on Monday (10/06) and the “Taronja” will attempt to remain alive in the series.

But, if Real Madrid win, they will advance to the Finals and will face the winner of Barcelona vs Zaragoza series.

In other European action, the German league playoffs saw Bayern Munich qualify for the Finals.

The Bavarians defeated Vechta at home in Game 3 (95-80) and swept the series (3-0).

Bayern was in front by 17 in the first quarter (29-12). Yet, Vechta reacted and cut the deficit to five at halftime.

However, the hosts brought their lead back to double digits and never looked back (77-57). The visitors never threatened again and Bayern earned an easy victory.

Danilo Barthel and Vladimir Lucic led the winners with a team-high 17 points apiece. For his part, T.J Bray had a game-high 38 points for the losing squad. However, he could not help his team stay alive in the series.

Bayern Munich will face ALBA Berlin in the Finals. ALBA defeated Oldenburg and secured its spot in the 2019/20 EuroLeague.