The Chemnitz basketball team put in a strong performance against Besiktas Istanbul for most of the game, but almost let a big lead slip away in the final quarter.
Basketball Bundesliga team Niners Chemnitz has extended its winning streak in the Eurocup to three games. Coach Rodrigo Pastore’s team prevailed 97-95 against Besiktas Istanbul in front of a home crowd. Amadou Sow was the Niners’ top scorer with 27 points, securing sixth place in Group B with their sixth win in twelve games.
Chemnitz started the game determinedly and took an early 15-10 lead (5th minute) with an 8-0 run. The hosts continued to impress with their energy and fast transition game. Besiktas, on the other hand, was rarely able to exploit its height advantage. Led by the outstanding Sow, the Niners extended their lead to nine points by halftime.
After the break, the visitors were more successful in getting the ball to the outstanding Ante Zizic under the basket. In the 27th minute, they tied the score at 67-67. But the Niners found the right answer and ended the third quarter with an 8-2 run. They also kept up the pace in the final quarter and extended their lead to 91-77 (34th minute) before their energy levels noticeably dropped. Istanbul closed the gap and even tied the score at 95-95 with 66 seconds remaining. However, Sow had the last word, scoring the winning basket after an offensive rebound.