In a thrilling basketball showdown, Milan snatches victory from ASVEL in a nail-biting finish. But was it a fair call?
EA7 Emporio Armani Milan emerged victorious against LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne with a score of 77-76, leaving the crowd at LDLC Arena in disbelief. This win was not without drama, as the game's outcome hinged on a last-second review. The officials' decision became the talk of the town, as it denied ASVEL a potential game-winning play.
Marko Guduric was the star of the night, dictating the game's rhythm and ending with impressive stats: 18 points, 7 assists, and a team-best performance index rating of 23. His teammates, Quinn Ellis (13 points, 5 rebounds) and the duo of Armoni Brooks and Zach LeDay (both in double digits), ensured Milan's offensive prowess.
ASVEL started strong, showcasing smooth ball handling and accurate perimeter shooting. However, Milan's defensive adjustments before halftime turned the tide. They effectively countered pick-and-roll plays, reducing ASVEL's inside game and taking a 5-point lead into the second half.
The third quarter saw Milan's Peppe Poeta's squad extend their lead to double digits by capitalizing on closeouts and dominating the paint with a 66.7% success rate on two-point attempts. Despite giving away 17 turnovers, Milan's defense held firm, protecting the paint and securing crucial defensive rebounds.
ASVEL fought back with Braian Angola leading the charge (game-high 23 points). Zac Seljaas and Thomas Heurtel also contributed 14 and 12 points, respectively. Yet, ASVEL's struggles in the paint, converting only 42.5% of their two-point attempts, hindered their comeback efforts.
And here's where it gets controversial. With less than a minute left, ASVEL reduced the lead to a single point and seemed to have secured a final chance to win after Mbaye Ndiaye's dunk. But the referees, after a review, deemed the shot too late, awarding Milan the win.
This victory propelled Milan towards the playoff race, now with a 14-13 record in EuroLeague Round 27. ASVEL, on the other hand, fell to 7-20. Milan aims to continue its winning streak against Dubai Basketball next week, while ASVEL travels to face Valencia Basket on Thursday.
But was the last-second review decision justified? Did the referees make the right call? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let's spark a lively debate!
