Ambition Wasn’t Enough – Zastal Zielona Góra Defeated by Legia in Warsaw

It was a game that could have been won, but Orlen Zastal Zielona Góra ultimately fell to Legia Warszawa, losing 79-85 in the 18th round of the Orlen Basket League. Despite an injury-depleted roster and a determined effort, Zastal ran out of steam in the crucial moments.

Zastal entered the match without Sindarius Thornwell, who left for the Chinese league, and Kamari Murphy, ruled out for the season due to an Achilles injury. Wesley Harris, though training with the team, was still unavailable. Even with these setbacks, the team put up a strong fight against the favored Legia and stayed in contention until the final minutes.

Match Breakdown:

• First Half: Zastal stayed close to Legia, tying the score at 12-12 early in the first quarter, but the hosts finished strong, leading 23-18 after ten minutes. In the second quarter, Legia extended their lead to eight points (36-28) thanks to outstanding performances from Kameron McGusty and Andrzej Pluta, who combined for 33 of Legia’s 49 points at halftime. Zastal struggled with rebounding but trailed by only six at the break (49-43).
• Third Quarter: Legia maintained control, but Zastal kept fighting. A three-pointer by Michał Kolenda gave the hosts a 58-51 lead with just over three minutes left in the quarter. However, Zastal responded with an impressive run, tying the game at 58-58 and even taking the lead (61-60) after a three-pointer from Marcin Woroniecki. Heading into the final quarter, Legia led by just two points (63-61).
• Fourth Quarter: The teams exchanged baskets in a tense final period. With four minutes left, the score was tied at 67-67. Zastal remained within striking distance, but fatigue became a factor. With two minutes left, Michał Sitnik, Zastal’s top performer, made it a 74-72 game. However, a three-point play by Ojārs Siliņš pushed Legia ahead 77-72. The decisive blow came from Andrzej Pluta, who, despite a quiet second half, hit a clutch three-pointer with 30 seconds left, securing the victory for Legia.

Zastal’s Michał Sitnik led the team with 15 points, matched by Michał Matczak, while Ty Nichols added 11 points. Despite the loss, the team showed great determination and resilience.

Zastal now has time to regroup before their next game on March 2, when they face Górnik Wałbrzych at home.

Source: GL