Zalgiris takes 2-0 lead in LKL quarterfinals 0

LKL.LT

After a successful showing in the EuroLeague Final Four, Zalgiris resumed the Betsafe LKL playoffs on a victorious note. The defending champions from Kaunas defeated Nevezis 96-75 on the road in Kedainiai on Thursday and took a 2-0 lead in the quarterfinals.

The Sarunas Jasikevicius-coached side ran away to a double-digit lead in the opening quarter and sailed through the game, continuing to increase their advantage quarter by quarter.

Axel Toupane was in top form for Zalgiris and registered a game-high 22-point mark, with Vasilije Micic collecting 14 points and team captain Paulius Jankunas scoring 13 points.

Edgaras Ulanovas chipped in with 11 points, while Kevin Pangos completed his first double-double of the season with 10 points and 12 assists.

For the opposing side, Nevezis guard duo of Lester Medford and James Woodard scored 16 and 15 points, respectively, while Gabrielius Maldunas added 10 points and 11 rebounds.

Zalgiris will have the chance to close out the series at the Zalgirio Arena on Friday evening, with last season’s runners-up Lietkabelis already waiting for them in the semifinals after topping Siauliai in the quarterfinals.