VILLEURBANNE — Crvena Zvezda defeated LDLC ASVEL 93-106 in EuroLeague action, securing a crucial road victory that mathematically guarantees the Serbian club a spot in the EuroLeague play-in. Jared Butler and Jordan Nwora, each with 24 points, led the visiting team's triumph in a game with several momentum shifts, while Brian Angola was the standout performer for the French side with 22 points.
The game began with great balance between both teams in this EuroLeague matchday. LDLC ASVEL stood firm from the start and managed to keep pace offensively against Crvena Zvezda, closing the first quarter tied 26-26.
The second quarter marked the first major turning point in the game. Crvena Zvezda elevated its defensive intensity and found greater fluidity on offense, opening up a significant lead. The Serbian team reached a 15-point advantage (50-35) before heading into halftime with a 55-43 score, after clearly dominating that stretch of the game.
But the game still had surprises in store. LDLC ASVEL responded strongly after the break and produced its best stretch in the third quarter. Led by Brian Angola, the French team managed to turn the score around and take a 67-62 lead, completely reopening the contest on this EuroLeague night.
Crvena Zvezda's response came quickly. The Serbian team regained control before the end of the third quarter and went back in front 74-71, buoyed by the offensive inspiration of Jared Butler and Jordan Nwora.
In the final period, Crvena Zvezda imposed its rhythm. The visiting team gradually extended the lead to 10 points (84-74) and later to 12 (98-86), an advantage that proved decisive.
Jared Butler, with 24 points and missing just two shots while adding five assists, was one of the game's standout performers. Jordan Nwora, also with 24 points, delivered several crucial plays down the stretch to secure the victory.
For the French team, Brian Angola led the scoring with 22 points, though his efforts were not enough to prevent another LDLC ASVEL loss in EuroLeague play.
With this EuroLeague victory, Crvena Zvezda improves its record to 21-16, mathematically securing its place in the EuroLeague play-in.
Meanwhile, LDLC ASVEL remains in last place in the standings with an 8-29 record, with no realistic hopes in the final stretch of the EuroLeague regular season.