Rilski Sportist Samokov reaches Balkan League Final

Rilski Sportist Samokov fought back from a losing position to dominate KB Peja 66-82 in Game 2 of the Balkan League semi-finals. The victory sent the Bulgarian club to the final of the competition, and deserved it was too after such a classy display.

Rilski Sportist Samokov did not have home court advantage in Game 2, and the club was chasing a one point deficit after last week’s 62-63 loss in Samokov. Kosovan club Peja held all the cards and were clear favouritesVV GV7 heading into this tie, but ultimately the home team was swamped by an impressive road show from Rilski.

The visitors set the tone early, pacing to a 16-19 lead through the first quarter, while in the second stanza the game remained close. However, Rilski carved a 37-40 lead through the long break and was leading 100-102 aggregate lead. In the third act the away team drained 26 points to ensure a cruising 13 point lead at the last split. In the final act Rilski Sportist Samokov eased to the win and put plenty of gloss on the final score.

Zarko Rakocevice had the only double-double of the contest with 22 points and 11 rebounds, followed Vernon Taylor with 19 points, and Julian Norfleet with 14 points.

Nic Wise logged 17 points for the losing effort, while Alban Vesli was good for 16 points.