Chima Moneke’s game-high 18 points weren’t enough to secure a victory for Baskonia, as they suffered a heartbreaking 75-73 defeat against Crvena Zvezda in their EuroLeague matchup at the Fernando Buesa Arena on Thursday night.
Both teams started strong, with the score tied at 16-16 after the first quarter. However, Crvena Zvezda surged ahead in the second, outscoring Baskonia 26-12 to establish a commanding 14-point lead at halftime (48-28).
Undeterred, Baskonia mounted a spirited comeback in the third quarter, outscoring their opponents 24-18 to narrow the deficit significantly. With less than 40 seconds remaining, Baskonia had a chance to extend their lead having gone up by two points 73-71.
However, Cannan Isiah scored four crucial points for Crvena Zvezda, giving them a 75-73 advantage. Moneke’s final shot with a second left on the clock missed, sealing Baskonia’s fate.
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Moneke finished with an impressive 18 points (6/8 from two-point range, 6/6 from the free-throw line), though he was unable to connect on any of his three three-point attempts. He also contributed seven rebounds, three assists, and a steal.
Donta Hall added 14 points, Nikola Osrogkavopolous scored 11, and both Markus Howard and Trent Forest chipped in with 10 points each for Baskonia.
For Crvena Zvezda, Joel Bolomboy led the scoring with 16 points, while Isiah Canaan’s 15 points proved vital for the visitors. Rokas Giedraites contributed 12 points.
Despite the loss, Moneke’s outstanding performance earned him the Most Valuable Player of the Game.
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