Final Four rookies Nadezhda eye up maiden EuroLeague Women title

ISTANBUL (EuroLeague Women Final Four) – Nadezhda Orenburg fulfilled the role of party-poopers with aplomb in Istanbul after edging out local favourites Fenerbahce to reach their first ever EuroLeague Women Final.

Former Fenerbahce play-caller Roberto Iniguez returned to haunt his ex-employers as he continued his incredible record in the competition of having reached the Final in all four seasons he has coached in the competition.

Nadezhda eased their way to a 74-68 success off the back of some strong defence on Turkey national team playmaker Birsel Vardarli Demirmen and a clinical night in punishing Fenerbahce’s turnovers.

It was also a big team effort offensively, with no fewer than five players reaching double-digits in points and DeWanna Bonner leading the way with 20 points.

Guess what.... 🏀🎉#EuroLeagueWomen #EuropaLeagueFinal pic.twitter.com/4HHx8l0oLM

— Angel Robinson (@angelrobinson33) April 15, 2016

“Fenerbahce had incredible support and it was an honour to play in the game,” declared a delighted Bonner.

“We have won a couple of big games on the road in EuroLeague Women this season, but we have never seen a crowd like that.

“It was two great teams and it was an amazing game to play in.

“We only just managed to come out on top.”

In the first Semi-Final, Diana Taurasi will be returning to the Final after a three-year absence, wasting little time in lighting it up with 21 points as UMMC Ekaterinburg triumphed 78-72 to end the reign of ZVVZ USK Prague.

Her headline contribution was complimented by her fellow USA national team star Brittney Griner who added 19 points in her Final Four debut. 

UMMC Ekaterinburg will look to land their third EuroLeague Women title in Sunday’s Final.

Follow all of Sunday's action on www.livebasketball.tv

For full EuroLeague Women coverage click here. 

FIBA