Game 1
On the one hand, Loko lost the game and now there is no retreat. We need to win the Istanbul game no matter what. On the other hand, we saw the most spectacular game in Basket Hall this Euroseason. There are three conclusions from the Game 1.
Firstly, Wilbekin can be stopped. Of course, Scottie made the shot that led to overtime. Of course, he was the top scorer of the game (23 points). But he made a few cuts in the paint and failed to show his best in individual playing. Due to good luck only, Scottie helped his team win. Mardy Collins was especially good in guarding Wilbekin.
Secondly, Darussafaka’s defense is as good as Loko’s. The Turks proved it in Game 1 completely. The highlights of the game include a block and a steal by Durassafaka.
Thirdly, Babb has found his shot. If it’s not lost in the Istanbul airport, his shot can be a key factor in Game 2. Loko was not so good in 2-pointers: Collins shot 4/12, Ragland – 2/7, Elegar – 5/9. Krasnodar successfully attempted only 40% of 2Ps. Darussafaka – 60.5%. But Babb and his dead-eye talent helped the team – 4/5 downtown shot and 3 free throws after he was fouled.
Opponent
Wilbekin didn’t steal the show because it was too hard for him to play under Krasnodar guard.
However, Cummings was a surprise. While the attention was paid to Scottie, Blatt, and Johnson’s block-shots, Cummings cut into the paint, took rebounds, stopped Loko’s offenses. He got 16 points in the second half and overtime.
Lokomotiv Kuban
Collins was good that night. Once again, his defense against Darussafaka and Wilbekin was outstanding. He is the third top scorer in the team now (10.1 points) and the second top assister (3.5).
Quotes
Where-When
The game takes place in Istanbul on April 13th at 20:15 Moscow time. Broadcasted by lokobasket.com and euroleague.tv.
Loko had already gone through the situation when they needed to win two games in a row (the Barcelona series in EuroLeague 2015/2016). Now Lokomotiv is heading to Turkey for revenge!