Zalgiris has now secured its seventh consecutive home victory, bringing their season record to 21 wins and 14 losses. This places them ahead of FC Barcelona, who hold a 20-15 record. The intense rivalry match remained evenly contested until Sylvain Francisco dramatically took control in the crucial moments.
For much of the game, Barcelona’s defense effectively contained the international player. They frequently double-teamed him and utilized the towering Tomas Satoransky as their primary defensive asset to slow him down. Despite the tight defense, Francisco still managed to dish out 6 assists in the first half, maintaining his effectiveness. Satoransky, however, exited the court with 4 minutes and 12 seconds remaining in the second quarter and was unable to return for the second half.
The turning point arrived when Sylvain Francisco drained his first three-pointer over Miles Norris, and with that shot, the momentum irrevocably shifted.
“It was incredibly tough; they were pressing me hard. It was really difficult to find my rhythm, but I felt like if I got even the slightest chance to make a play, it would be over,” Francisco stated. “There were two seconds left, I took the shot, and when the ball went in, I knew it was done.”
Francisco went on to hit three more three-pointers, while Zalgiris ramped up their defensive interceptions, creating further opportunities. Ultimately, all 14 of his points came in the final eight minutes of the game. For the second consecutive season, Francisco’s clutch performance in the fourth quarter secured Zalgiris a vital victory over Barcelona.
“This demonstrates what kind of player he is. He was patient. Initially, the whole team was trying to neutralize him, and Barcelona has many great guards, so it wasn’t easy,” said Zalgiris coach Tomas Masiulis. “But most importantly, he remained patient, and in crucial moments, he made the right decisions and scored his baskets. He moved the ball well and involved all his teammates.”
