Milan Secures 2-1 Victory Over Virtus Bologna to Take Game 3 Lead in LBA Final

During Game 3 of the LBA Finals in Milan, both Olimpia and Virtus Bologna played an exciting basketball game. Many NBA players were there as part of the NBPA’s One Court project. Milan, playing at home, managed to win 81-78, putting them ahead 2-1 in the series. They need only one more win to become the champions of Italy.

After two low score games Nikola Mirotic became the top scorer for his team scored 21 points. Shabazz Napier took on more responsibility for make plays, finish with 14 points and 6 assists. Shavon Shields contributed 13 points, even he missed all six of his three point attempts.

Nicolò Melli nearly achieved a double-double with 6 points and 9 rebounds. His crucial moment came when he blocked Iffe Lundberg’s shot in Virtus Bologna’s last attempt to score, securing the victory for his team.

Building on his impressive performance from a few days ago, Alessandro Pajola outdid himself, contributing 7 points, 5 rebounds, and an outstanding 10 assists.

So, Jordan Mickey, who was confirmed to play after missing Game 1, showcased his value with 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 blocks in Game 3.

Luca Banchi reflected on the intense game, acknowledging the team’s efforts. Despite not finishing the job, he highlighted their determination and pride. Looking ahead to the next game in just 48 hours, Banchi emphasized the need to maintain their energy and spirit to extend the series to Game 5.

Luca Banchi also commented on the referees’ decision to award possession to Milan after Virtus Bologna’s final attempt to tie the game. He expressed confusion and frustration over the decision, describing it as inexplicable and unsettling. However, he urged the team to maintain faith and stay focused despite the setback.

Ettore Messina’s team is now aiming for another win on their home turf to clinch the series and secure their third consecutive Italian league title. Once more, they face off against the formidable black-and-white team from Bologna. Game 4 is scheduled for June 13th at 8:30 PM CET, once again taking place at the Unipol Forum.

Game 3 Brings Balance to LBA Finals Showdown:

In contrast to the first two games in Bologna, where each team had moments of dominance, Game 3 began with both sides exchanging possessions frequently. Milan attempted to pull ahead at the 2:55 mark when Nikola Mirotic scored a basket and drew a foul for a three-point play.

The first quarter concluded with Iffe Lundberg and Devon Hall sinking three-pointers for Milan, giving them a 29-25 lead at home.

By continue his stellar performance the Danish guard made another successful shot from inside the arc with 7 minutes and 36 seconds. Which remained in the second quarter maintain his perfect shooting record.

Diego Flaccadori stole the ball and scored in transition extend Ettore Messina’s team lead to six points 38-32 and provide some breath room. Just before halftime Shabazz Napier delivered a beautiful assist to Nikola Mirotic for an easy layup which was increasing their lead. Alessandro Pajola scored a three pointer right before the buzzer narrow the gap to 46-44.

To start the third quarter Marco Belinelli’s basket tied the game for Virtus Bologna brought them back into contention. However, Stefano Tonut responded promptly with a three pointer for Milan. The momentum shifted when Tornike Shengelia was called for an offensive foul which was giving Virtus Bologna an opportunity.

At 4 minutes and 22 seconds remaining in the third quarter Johannes Voitgmann’s midrange shot extended Virtus Bologna’s lead, also prompted Luca Banchi to call a timeout. As the game progressed into the fourth quarter the score remained close with Milan leading 62-59 after Jordan Mickey’s finger roll.

Bryant Dunston’s basket finally gave Virtus Bologna the lead early in the fourth quarter after trail for much of the game was signaling a strong start to the final quarter for the black and white team. However, the red and white home team quickly turned the tide with a 9-2 scoring spree, only interrupted by Awudu Abass’ three pointer.

Despite Virtus Bologna’s efforts to narrow the gap Iffe Lundberg managed to bring the deficit to one point 71-70 later on. Then in a pivotal moment Shavon Shields showcased his talent by sink a clutch fadeaway shot over Toko Shengelia was solidifying his status as a key player for Milan.

With just 1 minute and 15 seconds remained in game 3 Virtus Bologna trailed by only three points with Ettore Messina’s team lead 79-76. Shabazz Napier attempted a shot to widen the gap but it missed its mark. Then Toko Shengelia managed to score another layup, bringing Virtus Bologna within striking distance once again.

However, shortly after, Shengelia lost possession of the ball, allowing Milan to regain control with time running out. Nikola Mirotic was fouled and successfully converted both free throws, extending Milan’s lead. Despite the efforts, Virtus Bologna’s Nik Melli couldn’t make a crucial play to turn the game around.

Battles Unfold in LBA Playoffs:

Quarterfinal

1. Virtus Segafredo Bologna vs Bertram Derthona Tortona:

• Game 1: Virtus Segafredo Bologna won 92-80
• Game 2: Virtus Segafredo Bologna won 83-77
• Game 3: Bertram Derthona Tortona won 91-81
• Game 4: Bertram Derthona Tortona won 82-75
• Game 5: Virtus Segafredo Bologna won 92-63

1. Umana Reyer Venice vs. UnaHotels Reggio Emilia:

• Game 1: UnaHotels Reggio Emilia won 82-74
• Game 2: Umana Reyer Venice won 83-75
• Game 3: UnaHotels Reggio Emilia won 78-66
• Game 4: Umana Reyer Venice won 95-92
• Game 5: Umana Reyer Venice won 83-67

1. EA7 Emporio Armani Milan vs. Dolomiti Energia Trento:

• Game 1: Dolomiti Energia Trento won 85-84
• Game 2: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 104-93
• Game 3: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 83-68
• Game 4: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 87-69

1. Germani Brescia vs. Estra Pistoia:

• Game 1: Germani Brescia won 79-70
• Game 2: Germani Brescia won 97-75
• Game 3: Germani Brescia won 98-77

Semifinal:

1. Virtus Segafredo Bologna vs. Umana Reyer Venice:

• Game 1: Virtus Segafredo Bologna won 103-89
• Game 2: Virtus Segafredo Bologna won 79-78
• Game 3: Umana Reyer Venice won 78-73
• Game 4: Virtus Segafredo Bologna won 96-81

1. EA7 Emporio Armani Milan vs. Germani Brescia:

• Game 1: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 95-89
• Game 2: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 77-66
• Game 3: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 96-89

Final:

1. Virtus Segafredo Bologna vs. EA7 Emporio Armani Milan:

• Game 1: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 86-75
• Game 2: Virtus Segafredo Bologna won 72-64
• Game 3: EA7 Emporio Armani Milan won 81-78