MINSK, 28 September (BelTA) – BC Tsmoki Minsk made a good start in the Basketbal Champions League qualification beating Rilski Sportist 72-58 in Samokov on 27 September, BelTA has learned.
Minsk showed off solid offence and provided a good defensive display to build a 9-point advantage in the second quarter and held on for a 72-58 victory.
Dru Joyce led Minsk's offence with 13 points and nine assists.
The return leg is due to take place in Minsk on 29 September. The winner will advance to the next stage of qualification to face Ironi Nahariya.
If Tsmoki Minsk succeed through qualification, they will make part of Pool A together with Turkish Banvit, Germany's Fraport Skyliners, Greek Aris, Czech CEZ Nymburk, Slovenia's Helios Suns, French AS Monaco, and one more team that go through qualification. Runners-up of the first and second qualification rounds of the Champions League will continue the international season in FIBA Europe Cup. The regular season of the Basketball Champions League will be over in February 2017. Two best teams from each of four groups will qualify for the quarterfinal. The Final Four will take place on 28-30 April.
