By Stefan Djordjevic/ info@eurohoops.net
Marko Guduric helped Fenerbahce Beko turn around Game 3 against Zalgiris Kaunas and grab a 66-57 road win for a 2-1 lead in the EuroLeague playoff series.
Zalgiris had a slightly better start thanks to good defense and transition offense which was enough for a 34-31 lead at halftime. However, Guduric took over in the third quarter nailing 11 points and pushing Fenerbahce ahead (49-46).
“We expected a very tough atmosphere and I’m very happy that we showed character, especially in the second half”, said the Serb guard after the game. “But it’s only 2-1 and we have to stay focused and prepare in this short period as best as possible for the next game. I’m just happy that we won the game. I did my job.”
The game stayed balance but with the score 59-56 and 40 second left, Melih Mahmutoglu nailed the dagger triple for the Turkish team from which Zalgiris couldn’t recover.
Guduric finished with game-high 17 points while Jan Vesely followed with ten in addition to Kostas Sloukas‘ nine points.
“The fans make a great atmosphere which is difficult to play in. In the first half, we didn’t play how we wanted, but in the second half we fought from the beginning and we got the win”, added Vesely.
Nate Wolters scored 15 points (3-4 triples) for Zalgiris followed by Brandon Davies’ nine and Thomas Walkup’s seven points.