FC Barcelona began their quest for a third Euroleague title and first since 2010 with a hard fought victory over Unics Kazan.
FC Barcelona began their quest for a third Euroleague title and first since 2010 with a hard fought victory over Unics Kazan.
The Spaniard’s produced a spirited comeback from a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to beat the Russians in their regular season opener at the Basket Hall Kazan.
Justin Doellman top scored with 23 points while Ante Tomic posted 13 points and 9 rebounds as Barca enjoyed a 69-63 victory.
Elsewhere Panathinaikos also kick-started the new campaign on a winning note beating Zalgiris Kaunas at the Olympic Sports Center Athens.
The six-time champions led by seven points at halftime but the Lithuanians of Zalgiris began the second half brightly and stormed ahead.
The Greek hosts regained control in the fourth and final quarter thanks to a fine showing from Nikos Pappas and Chris Singleton.
Despite a brief late charge from the visitors Panathinaikos held on to see out an 84-76 victory.