LIVE! Showdown in Barcelona: Bavaria succeeds in the big coup?
The basketball players of FC Bayern Munich just missed the surprise in the Euroleague. A weak third quarter ensured the 72:81 (37:31) defeat in the decision-making game at the title favorite FC Barcelona and the 2: 3 in the best-of-five series against the Catalans. While Barcelona is in the final Four (May 19/21 in Belgrade), the team of coach Andrea Trinchieri ends the Euroleague season.
“Huge response to the team,” said Bayern Managing Director Marko Pesic at Magentasport. “Of course we are disappointed that we didn’t make it. You saw today how important the home advantage is.” The favorite hosts started more concentrated than last in Munich. However, Bayern were not impressed by a 2: 7 (4th minute). With an 11-0 run, the Munich team turned the match and were at the front even after the end of the first round with 19:18.
Before the eyes of Barca President Joan Laporta, both clubs left many opportunities unused in the second quarter. The defense dominated on both sides until the two strong Nick Weiler-Babb and Ognjen Jaramaz brought Bayern to the lead shortly before the break with two successful spacers. “It was fine except for little things,” said Coach Trinchieri during the half -time break.
Barcelona and Mirotic turn up
But Bayern did not get a grip on the former NBA professional Nikola Mirotic after the break. The former Chicago Bulls player and the cozy Italian Nicolas Laprovittola provided the reversal. On the other hand, the Munich attempts rarely found the goal. Therefore, thanks to a 29:15 in the third quarter, Barcelona went into the final section with an eight-point lead.
Once again Mirotic made the first double-digit Barça lead with a threesome. Bayern no longer recovered as the Spaniards could play their class. The best shooter at the Munich was Othello Hunter with 18 points. The outstanding Laprovittola (26 points) and Mirotic (20) scored most points for Barcelona.
FC Barcelona – Bayern Munich 81:72 (31:37)
Best throwers for Barcelona: Laprovittola (26), Mirotic (20), Calathes (10)
Best thrower for Munich: Hunter (18), Jaramaz (17), Weiler-Babb (10)
Play-off final score: 3: 2