Shields-Datome duo leads Armani Exchange to Italian league title / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: ZUMAPRESS.com-Scanpix Credit ZUMAPRESS.com-Scanpix

AX Armani Exchange Milan reclaimed the Italian league title after four years. Ettore Messina's squad eased past the visiting Virtus Segafredo Bologna, 81-64 (29-16, 14-20, 18-10, 20-18), and lifted the trophy by defeating opponents in the best-of-seven series, 4-2.

Free throws this season

70%12,8Points made:12,8Accuracy:70,1%Place in standings:13Record max:26Record min:2Most made FTs:Milos TeodosicTeamEuroCupStatisticsSchedule

Dominant Armani Exchange secured their 29th title in the domestic league. Virtus rank second with 16 golden accolades.

Last time Olimpia Milano won the trophy was in the 2017-18 season. Reyer Venezia came out victorious the following season, while Virtus clinched first place in the previous campaign. In between, the COVID-19 pandemic messed up the championship in 2020.

Even though Shavon Shields-led Milan started the game strong with a 20-7 push and had plus 16 (32-16) at the start of the second quarter, Virtus Bologna came back within the fighting distance after 7-0 and 5-0 spurts (34-39). Teams were separated by 7 points at halftime with hosts leading the way 43-36.

The trio of Kyle Hines, Sergio Rodriguez, and Luigi Datome organized a game-deciding 10-0 run at the start of the second half and Milan's lead grew up to 17 points (53-36). Virtus were left without points for 5:40 in the third period.

Armani Exchange defended their solid advantage and had a 15-point cushion before the last 10 minutes of the match. Milan opened up the ultimate tally with a 10-0 push and was too far away (71-46).

Veteran Luigi Datome led the scoring race for the winners, accumulating 23 points (2/6 2PT, 5/10 3PT, 4/4 FT), 4 rebounds, and 20 PIR.

Shavon Shields aided him with 15 points (6/10 2PT, 1/3 3PT), 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 19 PIR. Moreover, he was named the MVP of the finals.

Armani Exchange: Luigi Datome 23, Shavon Shields 15, Sergio Rodriguez 12 (8 AST), Kyle Hines 8 (6 REB), Nicolo Melli 8.

Virtus: Amar Alibegovic 11 (5 REB), Nico Mannion 10, Mam Jaiteh 9 (7 REB), Tornike Shengelia 8.

Highlights

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