The quarterfinal series started with a victory for Tskhum-Apkhazeti, which defeated the rival Olimpi with a convincing difference – 97:74 (Statistics) and approached the semifinal. Tskhumi coached by Nikoloz Cherkezishvili did not have trouble beating the opponent, however, in the mentioned match (in the pair) the fans were expecting a very equal and interesting fight.
The series is not over and everything is still ahead. Tskhum-Apkhazeti has won only one match so far and everything may go with a different scenario, however, for this moment, based on the first meeting, Cherkezishvili’s team has a solid advantage.
The match did not start badly for Olimpi. They even won the first quarter (18:17), however, from the second period, Tskumi gained an advantage and didn’t give it up until the end. Cherkezishvili’s team was winning 45:32 for the big break and in the remaining time they didn’t let opponent get closer.
In the third period, the leadership of Tskhum-Apkhazeti exceeded 20 points and the fate of the match was in fact determined. Tskhumi easily went to victory and advanced 1:0 in the series. Alexandre Phevadze, a member of the national team, led the winners with 24 point and 13 rebounds. Joshua McFolly scored 20 points, Zurab Machaladze, Tyler Green and Nodar Gogodze had 11-11 points each. Otar Pkhakadze was the most effective in Olimpi with 19 points, Kakha Jintcharadze collected 15 points, Devante Foster had 11 points and 6 rebounds.
The second match of the series will be held at the Tbilisi Olympic Palace on May 8, at 17:30. In case of victory, Tskhum-Apkhazeti will reach the semifinals, and if Olimpi wins, the third, decisive match will be held on May 10.
