Milan players wait for matchup against Virtus: 'The most popular team doesn't always win' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Lega Basket Credit Lega Basket

The Italian Lega Basket playoffs start today, but the AX Armani Exchange Milan's players have much more on their minds than their first-round opponent.

Free throws this season

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

Although Milan will meet UnaHotels Reggio Emilia in the quarterfinals, the players are already looking forward to their possibly-upcoming matchup against Virtus Segafredo Bologna.

"I expect tough playoffs but I am optimistic and confident about our performance. Virtus is naturally the favorite for the numbers it has expressed in the league but the most popular team does not always win," Giampaolo Ricci told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"The final? I hope we'll be there," Gigi Datome told before the playoffs. "On the other hand, the Virtus seems to be the strongest on its side of the board. It would be a nice final, from the media and to play."

Virtus won the EuroCup this Wednesday beating Frutti Extra Bursaspor in a decisive fashion. "It certainly gives prestige to Serie A," Datome said about the opponents' achievement.

"We often talk about movement, but it's too broad a word. However, Serie A receives some prestige, Virtus will make the EuroLeague with an important ambition and budget, they already have important players with a titled coach who is respected all over the world," he continued. "It will be nice to have two teams in Serie A capable of competing in the EuroLeague."

Virtus Bologna won the Italian championship last year, beating Milan in the final. They also finished the regular season ahead of Milan with 26 wins compared to 24 wins.

Talking about the chance to capture the title against the team that defeated them last year, Datome was certain: "It would be a nice revenge."

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