By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Unicaja secured a victory in the second game of the Basketball Champions League Quarterfinal series, defeating ALBA in Berlin after overtime with a score of 88-85.
After the drama in the first match, another intense duel between these two teams unfolded, resulting in Unicaja advancing to the Final Four, which will be held in Badalona.
An incredible finish marked the end of regulation time. A three-pointer by Jack Kayil brought the hosts to within two points (72-74), after which the same player was fouled with 2.4 seconds remaining. Kayil had two free throws, missed the first, and then intentionally missed the second.
However, he managed to get the offensive rebound himself and then earned another pair of free throws with 1.8 seconds left. This time, he made both, and after Tyler Kalinoski’s miss, the game went into overtime.
In overtime, Unicaja performed better, hitting crucial free throws when necessary to reach a 88-80 lead. ALBA managed to add some drama again, with O’Connell making two free throws and intentionally missing the third with three seconds left, with the Spaniards leading 88-85, but ALBA couldn’t pull off a miracle to force another overtime.
Nihad Djedovic was the best for the visitors with 17 points, Emir Sulejmanovic added 15, Chris Duarte 13, and Kendrick Perry 11. On the other side, young Jack Kayil scored 22 points, J’Wan Roberts added 13, and Norris Agbakoko 10.
In the Final Four, Unicaja will play against the winner of the deciding game between AEK and Joventut.
Postgame press conference: