Zalgiris Kaunas defeated Real Madrid 87-85 in a EuroLeague match decided in the final seconds by Sylvain Francisco's two free throws and Mario Hezonja's missed three-pointer. The last play sparked controversy for Madrid. Francisco led with 20 points, while Edy Tavares had 12 points and 10 rebounds for Madrid.
Zalgiris Kaunas beat Real Madrid 87-85 at Zalgirio Arena in Kaunas in a high-intensity EuroLeague clash. The game, featuring a frantic pace and 15 lead changes by the 34th minute, was decided in the closing seconds. With 3.9 seconds left, Sylvain Francisco (20 points) drove against Madrid's defense, was called for a controversial foul—involving Hezonja and Tavares—and sank the two free throws. Mario Hezonja (18 points), erratic from beyond the arc, missed the buzzer-beating three-pointer, marking Madrid's 11th away loss in 16 EuroLeague games this season. Madrid coach Sergio Scariolo said in the press room: “No me preguntéis por la última jugada, porque estoy sin palabras. Absolutamente sin palabras”—translated as “Don't ask me about the last play, because I'm speechless. Absolutely speechless.” Edy Tavares added 12 points and 10 rebounds, with players like Okeke, Hezonja, and Sergio Llull shining in the first half via key threes. Zalgiris held Madrid to 13 points in the fourth quarter, capitalizing on offensive rebounds and the spark from Francisco and Moses Wright. The loss hinders Real Madrid's bid for home-court advantage in the playoffs.
