ALBA Berlin’s Reggie Redding picked a great night for career highs.
The American had the spotlight all to himself as he poured in a career-best 27 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists as ALBA defeated Zalgiris 80-72 in a rare Wednesday Euroleague Top 16 game in Berlin.
“They picked up their pressure and gave us their last shot to try to win the game, but luckily we survived it,” said Redding as his side move to 4-5 in Group E.
“I’ve been struggling a little bit. Some games I played well, some games I don’t shoot well. Some games I shoot well. So hopefully I can get a rhythm from this game and keep it for the rest of the season. ”
And if he does indeed maintain this rhythm, then ALBA might be the surprise package in the Euroleague this season. Offensively they executed and chose their shots smartly, and on the defensive end, the Germans played as a group.
Zalgiris remained in touch, desperately trying to keep their Euroleague season going, but ALBA had the answers.
Leading 42-37 at half-time, ALBA’s lead ballooned to 15 at one stage in the third period before settling for a 62-51 cushion heading into the final quarter.
From there, Berlin were comfortable, easing slightly off the pedal but at the same time, maintaining their lead.
It’s important to recognize in this situation that we played without three players,” ALBA coach Sasa Obradovic said.
“Three main guys and we still won this game. I’m happy for this. We kept our situation alive to get to the [playoffs] and we will fight till the end. I’m not thinking too much about what’s possible. Let’s see what’s next. ”
Arturas Milaknis paced Zalgiris with 18 points as they drop to 3-6.
