Dexia Mons-Hainaut 77 vs. Tuborg Pilsener S.C. 73

Belgian side Dexia Mons Hainaut celebrated the inauguration of their new arena with a victory over Turkish visitors Tuborg Izmir.

The new arena boasts an increased capacity of 3,700 seats as well as improved VIP and guest facilities.

The home side, who are still not used to the new venue themselves, made hard work of their eventual victory and victory was not assured until the final moments.

Dexia were able to build a 14-point lead before halftime (57-39), but Tuborg came roaring back in the third quarter. They held Dexia to a single point in the opening 2 1/2 minutes and got back to within 7 points, 53-46.

Dexia were having problems containing Tuborg’s Turkish national team center Asim Pars (19 points) inside. Meanwhile, Teo Cizmic was hurting Dexia from the outside and his consecutive three pointers brought the Turkish team to within 3 points, 64-61. When Ömer Ünver added a three-pointer of his own, Tuborg took the lead, 66-67.

It was Jean-Marc Jaumin (21 points) and Corey Williams (10 points) whose cool heads saved the day for Dexia. Their clutch baskets ensured a thrilling finish for the 3,700 fans and more importantly a first FIBA Europe League win.