Ukrainian side BC Dnipro scored a road victory in the FIBA Europe Cup this week, defeating Estonian hosts Tartu Rock 72-75.
Tartu Rock committed a total of 24 turnovers durng the game and none so costly as in the game's final possession. With the score tied at 72-72, it was guard Oleg Kozorez (20 points) who converted the turnover into a basket, giving Dnipro a 2-point lead.
Rock missed their next shot and were forced to foul. Dnipro's Victor Garbuz could only make 1 of 2 free throws, but it was enough to give his side a valuable road win.
Tartu Coach Tonu Lust was philosophical in defeat.
"This is basketball – once you win, other time you will lose. This time we were not so lucky, of course missed some of our main players," he said.
Lust was referring to Martin Viiask and Tarmo Kikerpill, both of whom carried injuries into the game.
Dnipro Coach Andrei Shaptala was also circumspect in acknowledging his team's good fortunes in the final minute of play.
"We are playing for the first time in the FIBA Europe Cup and are lucky after every victory we achieve. Last game we were not so lucky in Moscow but today was our day," he said.
