Bologna – Monaco

International - Euroleague, Round 26

09/02/2023 19:30 CET

Virtus Bologna hosts a home game in the EuroLeague this Friday, February 9th, at 8:30 PM at the Segafredo Arena, welcoming AS Monaco. Observers see the team from the Principality as the favorite, but caution might be wise in this case. At home, Virtus Bologna is a formidable force, often clinching victories through intense struggle, especially with a commanding performance in the final quarter. Sometimes, it takes not ten minutes, but perhaps just five, for them to secure the win and walk off the court with two points in their pocket. Make no mistake, Monaco is a top-tier team, yet its performance can be inconsistent and heavily influenced by its star player, Mike James, who has shown signs of agitation recently, even receiving a hefty fine for disrespectful behavior towards referees. In their previous encounter, Virtus unexpectedly triumphed by 24 points away from home. Initially, this led to speculation of a Monaco player revolt against coach Sasha Obradovic, but it actually highlighted Virtus Bologna's high caliber. Following that, both teams achieved impressive results. Virtus currently sits third in the league, with Monaco close behind in fifth, just two points apart. Naturally, both aim to secure a top-six finish to advance to the playoffs. Virtus will be at full strength, particularly with players in peak form. Notably, Toko Shengelia, who had been sidelined with a back issue and seemed a bit rusty upon return—a common occurrence. Mickey delivered a strong performance against Treviso in the league and is hoped to replicate that in the EuroLeague, despite a disappointing showing against Partizan Belgrade. Averaging 9.2 points per game, he is expected to contribute significantly. Cordinier, with 9.3 points per game, is indispensable in both offense and defense. Marco Belinelli, nearly 38, is primarily an offensive force, averaging 14.5 points per game, just slightly less than Shengelia, who, however, makes a defensive impact and is five years his junior. Additionally, Hackett and Lundberg each contribute nine points per game, with Iffe emerging as the clutch shooter, especially in dominating final quarters. Zizic showed excellent under-the-basket play against Treviso, a contrast to his performance against Partizan, and Dunston is expected to bring valuable experience. Monaco's key player, Mike James, attracts double teams and scores 12.7 points per game, but Jordan Loyd and Elie Okobo outscore him with 13.1 and 13 points, respectively. Not to be overlooked is Brown, a standout player who scored sixteen against Fenerbahçe in their last match. An exciting, high-scoring match is anticipated between Virtus and Monaco, with the former averaging 80.6 points and the latter 86.2.