«Kalev» Tallinn, Estonia vs. VEF Riga, Latvia

VEF defeated Kalev in Tallinn on Sunday afternoon, 86-78. The visitors led by as much as 21 midway through the 3rd quarter, before Kalev mounted a furious comeback, cutting the deficit to two early in the 4th. But VEF held on, securing a huge road win to improve to 4-9.

Recap
There was no clear favorite entering the Baltic derby. Kalev held a one-game lead in the standings and had the home-court advantage, but VEF was extremely motivated to escape the league cellar and catch Kalev.

VEF gradually took control in the opening period. Kalev relied almost exclusively on Josh Boone in the paint, whereas Riga had multiple weapons on offense. Mareks Mejeris and Martins Meiers couldn't miss from the field, giving VEF a 10-point lead at halftime, 49-39.

Riga added to the lead in the 3rd quarter, leading by as much as 21 midway through the period. Kalev responded thanks to the red-hot perimeter shooting of Rolands Freimanis and Gregor Arbet.

Kalev made it a five-point game entering the 4th quarter. Midway through the final period, Arbet hit from downtown to cut the lead to three, 70-67. VEF answered immediately, outscoring Kalev 10-3 over the next two minutes to restore a double-digit margin. Arbet and Rain Veideman helped the home team pull within five late, but Kalev ultimately ran out of steam, dropping the 86-78 decision in Tallinn.

Star Player
Martins Meiers. VEF's young Latvian center had a terrific game, matched up against Kalev's Josh Boone. Meiers ended with 23 points and nine rebounds on 11-12 shooting, while playing less than 20 minutes.

Stat of the Game
52-32 - VEF's scoring advantage in the paint.

Snapshot