ULEB Euroleague Play-Offs 2000-2001

The great final faced the VIRTUS BOLONIA against the TAU CERAMICA. The first final of the era ULEB and the only one in playoff format to five games. The final series began with a Basque victory in Italy (65-78). Bennett scored and directed and between Foirest and a tremendous Alexander in both zones the TAU was able to surprise the Virtus on their court. In the second encounter the Virtus gave rise to no doubt and won with authority (94-73). Rigaudeau with a great match led a Virtus launched and the series headed to Vitoria with (1-1). The third match was going to be key for the series and here the Virtus demonstrated its gallons to be champion. With a clear (60-80) recovered the factor court and put in a limit situation to TAU, Baskonia was never comfortable and Ginobili was a hammer. The Basques got their caste to win the fourth by (96-79) and force the fifth game. Between Bennett and Alexander they were able to withstand the resistance of their rival. In the fifth and final Bologna Virtus was proclaimed champion of the first Euroleague in ULEB format after winning by (82-74). The truth is that the Italians dominated from the beginning. Bennett and Oberto wanted to give the reply but finally fell to the quality of Rigaudeau, Ginobili, Jaric and Griffith.

Courtesy of Basketfinals