The first game is fine: Olimpia took control, won 85-72 in Tortona

Olimpia’s struggles lasted about six or seven minutes in a ice cold first quarter (1 for 8). Gradually the team got into some rhythm and took control. Tortona led 20-9 but Olimpia dominated the rest of the way winning 85-72. It was a real game, Tortona played through the end and obligated Olimpia to do just the same, but Coach Ettore Messina implemented a 14-man rotation, didn’t have to ask too much to anybody. Every now and then all the players helped. Leandro Bolmaro and Neno Dimitrijevic shared the minutes at the point in two different ways. Dimitrijevic had nine points and seven assists, creating a lot for his teammates; Bolmaro used his motor and defense. Three centers were used too, all of them attacked the glasses and played with a lot of energy. So, in spite of some letdowns, some struggles, it was a very nice outing being the first real game of the season. Armoni Brooks confirmed his hot shooting; David McCormack was a presence inside. Olimpia got away when three-point shooting became a weapon in the fourth quarter. Three consecutive three-pointers by Dimitrijevc, Ricci and Causer turned a four-point lead entering in the fourth into a 11-point margin. Tonut and LeDay added two more threes and the game was pretty much over. Shavon Shields by the way led all the scorers with 15 points.