MINSK, 19 October (BelTA) – BC Tsmoki Minsk fell 76-78 to Belgium's Proximus Spirou in the FIBA Europe Cup group stage opener, BelTA has learned.
The hosts had a good start going into the break with a 9-point advantage. However, the guests caught up and took the lead, 64-63, in the fourth quarter. The Dragons were fast to retake the initiative, but a number of mistakes kept them from making the running.
Nikita Meshcheryakov led the team with 16 points.
Alexander Krutikov's men will next play against Bnei Herzliya Israel on 25 October.
Two best teams from each of eight groups will advance to the second group stage.
Ahead of the FIBA Europe Cup second round the Minsk Dragons will host Astana Kazakhstan in the VTB United League action on 22 October.
