By Eurohoops Team / info@eurohoops.net
Energia Trento defeated the defending champions, Venezia 78-80 in a thrilling game down the stretch, stealing Game 1 on the road for the Italian League quarterfinals.
The contest was decided in the final two minutes, as Shavon Shields came out big for the visitors, scoring the game-winning shot and 27 points. Venezia had a chance to tie the game at 78 and force overtime but could not convert. Trento got the ball, Silis made one free-throw and on the following possession Austin Daye made a three-pointer to cut the deficit to just one point (78-79), but it was too late.
Shields was impressive for the winners as he led all scorers with 27 points, but was also really efficient from the field (9/15 FG). He also added four rebounds. Dominique Sutton was his ‘partner in crime,’ as he flirted with a double-double of 13 points and nine rebounds.
For Venezia, Austin Daye shined with 27 points (4/6 3FG), but could not lead his team to a Game 1 win.