Virtus Bologna closed out its temporary Paladozza Arena with a 99-89 EuroLeague win over Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv on Friday. Carsen Edwards led the charge, pouring in a game-high 26 points, including 17 in the first half, while connecting on 8-of-15 three-pointers.
Virtus set the tone early, hitting 10 of its first 17 long-range attempts to carve out a 56-45 halftime lead. Derrick Alston added 15 points and 7 rebounds, and Matt Morgan chipped in 17 points as Virtus dished 27 assists in total.
Maccabi stayed within striking distance thanks to Marcio Santos, who led the visitors with 19 points, while Roman Sorkin and John DiBartolomeo added 11 each. However, the team struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 12-of-40, and missed the contributions of Lonnie Walker and the sidelined Jaylen Hoard.
Virtus controlled the game through the first three quarters, but Maccabi cut the lead to six points at 90-84 in the fourth. Quick buckets from Edwards and his teammates ensured Virtus maintained separation to close out the win.
Maccabi dominated the boards with 21 offensive rebounds and a total of 39, but it was not enough to overcome Virtus’ efficient shooting and ball movement. The victory lifts Virtus to 6-6 in EuroLeague play, while Maccabi falls to 3-9.
Virtus will travel to face Fenerbahce next Tuesday, while Maccabi hosts EA7 Emporio Armani Milan in Round 13.
