A match for the history

Precision versus power, speed versus physicality, up-tempo versus half-court… For our return after ten days away from home, a packed adidas Arena was treated to a magnificent clash of styles. Milan took their time building up play, forced to play with the 24-second shot clock due to the relentless pressure from Paris Basketball. Initially, the visitors managed to cope, thanks in particular to the strength of their big men. Our players adapted by cutting off passing lanes more. The problem: with each missed opportunity, Olimpia barely had time to blink before Léo and company were already on the attack. The contrast was stark. In less than 10 seconds, our Parisians capitalized on a clever mismatch, sinking shots from both long range and close range. Their relentless speed was compounded by a big stretch from Derek at the end of the first quarter when the Italians tried to mount a comeback (30-19). Surely frustrated by this long, consistently fruitless offensive run, the Red and Whites reduced their possessions while simultaneously increasing the pace. But at this kind of game, we’re the best! Fueled by Nadir’s impressive string of and-ones, Julius Thomas’s men hammered their opponents. The game turned into a rout! Over 60 points – 19 of them directly from the Prince of Paris – in less than 10 minutes. Without a doubt, it was THE best half of our season (64-41).