"No, No! It's a EuroLeague Record and It's on Us – Don't Blame the Referees!" Dusan Alimpijevic's Honest Post-Game Words Resonate Across Europe
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Following the final buzzer, Dusan Alimpijevic directed all praise toward his squad while offering a candid assessment of the staggering free-throw disparity: Baskonia 42 – Besiktas 17.
"Beyond neutralizing their three-point shooting, our mindset and energy were spot on, and I am extremely proud of my players because they desperately wanted this win tonight," Alimpijevic said following the Round 4 EuroLeague triumph. "You could see their hunger. We adjusted our defensive approach in the second half, particularly in the fourth quarter. I believe we conceded just 13 points down the stretch, stepped up defensively, and that proved decisive. They are gradually realizing that the EuroLeague is an entirely different level, far more demanding on the defensive end. We are newcomers to this competition and still need time."
Baskonia went to the free-throw line 29 times in the first half alone, but Alimpijevic made it clear that officiating was not to blame:
"Full credit to my players, they did so many things well. Had we not conceded so many free throws in the first half, I think this victory would have come much easier," Alimpijevic emphasized. "I'm not suggesting this had anything to do with the referees—it is entirely on us. We allowed them to shoot 29 free throws in the opening half, which I believe is a EuroLeague record. That is our responsibility. Going forward, we have to be much smarter in those situations."
Besiktas now improve to a 2-2 record and turn their focus to Round 5, when they travel to face Hapoel.
American Star Rolls Back the Clock to Stun Baskonia!
Besiktas seized control right from the opening tip. Dusan Alimpijevic's men dictated terms offensively, leaving Baskonia struggling for answers. Scottie Wilbekin paced the visitors through a dynamic start as Besiktas built a 28-20 lead after the first ten minutes.
Although Besiktas looked set to sustain their momentum, Baskonia roared back behind Kenneth Faried, briefly taking the lead to make it 51-49 at the halftime interval.
The Istanbul side regrouped after the break. Leaning on Devon Dotson and Eugene Omoruyi to create separation, Besiktas regained control. Baskonia stayed within striking distance, but the visitors held a 73-71 edge heading into the final period.
Wilbekin continued to orchestrate the half-court offense masterfully throughout the final quarter. Paolo Galbiati's side had no answer for his playmaking and scoring as the Black Eagles closed out a crucial road victory.
Wilbekin finished with a team-high 24 points, matching Chris Duarte's 24-point outing for Baskonia.
Edwards Powers Zalgiris
Welcome Home, Champion
EuroLeague, Round 4
EuroLeague Standings
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