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- You could follow the live coverage of the KK Crvena zvezda Meridianbet – KK Žalgiris match on Sportal.
Red Star suffered a defeat in their EuroLeague opener, falling at home just as they did last year. While Olimpia Milano was their undoing then, this time it was Žalgiris.
However, this was only Red Star's first official match of the new season, under a new coach and with numerous new players. Therefore, true results and assessments will require more time.
Nevertheless, if the morning shows what the day will bring, Red Star has found a significant reinforcement in David Kramer.
Red Star had long awaited a player like David Kramer
David Kramer arrived this summer somewhat under the radar. While Red Star was signing serious EuroLeague names, the German joined from Real Madrid after a less-than-stellar season with the Royal club.
Consequently, his signing went largely unnoticed, and few realized how much the World Champion with the German national team would truly mean to the red and whites.
Crvena zvezda Meridianbet couldn't secure a win, but it's now likely clearer to everyone, including Ibon Navarro, that this team performs better with Kramer on the court. Red Star had long sought a reliable defender like the German, one who could also contribute offensively.
Against Žalgiris, Kramer demonstrated high basketball IQ, playing smart defense and committing fouls when necessary, with the exception of one misstep and a foul on Edgaras Ulanovas. He also showcased his offensive capabilities.
Kramer hit two crucial three-pointers, both at pivotal moments in the game, and both significantly boosted Crvena zvezda at those times. David took responsibility, wasn't afraid to shoot, and his performance is sure to improve further with more games in the red and white jersey. After all, he spent almost an entire season on the bench at Real Madrid, but most importantly – Ibon Navarro trusts him.
The first game might not have ended as fans hoped, but it seems Red Star has finally found a dependable shooter who can contribute equally on both ends of the court.
EuroLeague Standings
VIDEO: Red Star's practice before Žalgiris, here's what the red and whites were working on
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