BarcelonaThe best Barça of the season so far recovered from a 14-point deficit against Olympiacos, forced overtime, but could not complete the feat (100-105). The blaugrana team played with the passion of Pep Guardiola, who witnessed the match live, but lacked the necessary determination to overcome the EuroLeague champion. Justin Robinson, who forced extra time with a three-pointer, and Tyrese Martin had a great performance at the Palau Blaugrana.
Without Tyler Dorsey, sidelined from the team due to some very critical statements, Olympiacos continues to be a tough team to crack. The reigning competition champion tested a Catalan side that dished out 26 assists and grabbed 20 offensive rebounds.
Barça started the game on the right foot. The Catalan team struggled to contain Sasha Vezenkov, who scored 11 points in the opening minutes, and Olympiacos knew how to punish their turnovers, but their offensive accuracy allowed them to score 30 points in the first period (30-26). The hosts took the initiative during the first stretch of the game in which the Greek opponent struggled to control the rebound. The second quarter was very different and the visitors stepped up their scoring to turn the game around and reach halftime with a 10-point lead (47-57).
The third quarter was very even and both teams saved energy for the final quarter. The maximum difference was 14 points (60-74). When Barça tried to increase their physical level, Olympiacos reacted with more strength. A very positive run added excitement in the final seconds (88-90).
Barça failed to take advantage of a flagrant foul by Evan Fournier with 25.5 seconds left, as Josh Nebo missed a free throw and Kevin Punter missed the subsequent shot. Two free throws by Vezenkov pulled Olympiacos away again, but Justin Robinson tied the game with a three-pointer with 1.8 seconds left that sent the game to overtime.
Olympiacos’ maturity was more evident than ever in overtime, when the Greek team knew how to close out the game.
