Angry D. Sleva of 'Neptūnas' said: 'This can hurt me'
D. Sleva scored 23 points in Žalgiris' commanding 119-81 victory over Neptūnas, but faced controversy after an emotional outburst towards the opposing coaches.
In a dominant performance, Žalgiris secured a resounding 119-81 victory against Neptūnas in the KMT Final Four, with standout player D. Sleva contributing significantly by scoring 23 points in just 16 minutes on the court. Sleva showcased impressive shooting accuracy, finishing the game with an outstanding 3-for-3 on two-pointers, 5-for-6 on three-pointers, and 2-for-4 on free throws, along with contributing rebounds and assists. His performance exemplified his knowledge of the competitive mindset needed when facing lower-ranked teams, acknowledging that Neptūnas had skilled shooters and presented a unique style of play.
Throughout the game, Sleva displayed intense emotions, particularly highlighted by a moment when he celebrated a buzzer-beater three-pointer at the end of the third quarter, which, however, did not count. This emotional display extended towards the coaches of Neptūnas, as he run towards them, pointing and shouting. Post-game, Sleva clarified that while he exchanged words with the coaching staff, he maintained his composure and did not directly engage with the players of the opposing team. This incident raised concerns about sportsmanship amidst a high-stakes game and might spark discussions around player conduct in competitive environments.
The overall match not only demonstrated Žalgiris' strength but also underlined the emotional intensity that can accompany critical games in the tournament setting. As the KMT Final Four progresses, it adds a layer of excitement and tension, making the road ahead even more compelling as teams strive for championship glory and players navigate their emotions on and off the court.