Yakin Dogu Universitesi take precious Final lead back to Istanbul

KAYSERI (EuroCup Women) - Yakin Dogu Universitesi claimed what could be a priceless 73-69 triumph on the road at Bellona Agu in the first leg of the EuroCup Women Final.

Turning Point: Having had a great start to the contest only to see a commanding double-digit advantage wiped out, Yakin Dogu Universitesi found themselves trailing 41-39 at the start of the third quarter and potentially struggling. However, a 9-0 run got them back on the front foot and provided the foundation for a precious victory.

The incredible transition game of the visitors, so often initiated by the electric Courtney Vandersloot was the thing which stood out most.

Stats Don't Lie: Yakin Dogu dominated on the glass and out-rebounded their opponents 41-29, while they also restricted their opponents to just one fast-break score, whilst themselves scoring 13 points in that category.

Game Heroes: Vandersloot has been one of the EuroCup Women players of the year and she didn't disappoint by finishing the game with a brilliant 25 points, 5 assists and 4 steals, while Kayla McBride dropped 19 points. However, if Bellona Agu do end up coming back to pick up the silverware, it could be largely down to the support of their fans and most notably, Mirna Mazic. While Chelsea Gray impressed with a team-high 21 points, the Croatian center went a perfect seven-of-seven from the field in a flawless shooting effort.

The second leg will take place on Wednesday 12 April.

FIBA