Haynes, Reyer Venezia too strong for Donar Groningen in Italy

VENICE (FIBA Europe Cup) - MarQuez Haynes put the cherry on top of Umana Reyer Venezia's 82-72 first-leg triumph over Donar Groningen in the Semi-Finals with a last-second triple to extend the Italian side's cushion to double figures before next week's return fixture in the Netherlands.

Turning Point: Having entered the half-time break down 43-42, the Walter De Raffaele-coached home side took matters into their own hands in the third quarter, using an 11-1 run at the end of the period to take a 66-57 lead into the final frame.

Game Hero: It was symbolic that Haynes had the last say in the contest with a game-closing long-range basket, with the 31-year-old veteran putting his skills on display all night long. The point guard finished the evening with 12 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists and only a single turnover.

Stats Don't Lie: Donar Groningen did a good job of limiting second-chance points, allowing Reyer Venezia to grab only one offensive rebound, while taking down 14 themselves. The Dutch side outscored the hosts 14-2 in second-opportunity points.

Peric with the fake and the 💪 finish! #FIBAEuropeCup@Reyer1872

📺 https://t.co/Y73UE20D2e pic.twitter.com/O5CG1eikE3

— FIBA Europe Cup (@FIBAEuropeCup) April 11, 2018

Bottom Line: Reyer Venezia registered their third consecutive home victory in the Play-Offs but should not get too comfortable with their 10-point cushion, since Donar beat their previous opponents U-BT Cluj-Napoca and Mornar Bar by 27 points at home on both occasions.

FIBA