MOSCOW (EuroLeague Women) - Umana Reyer already had first-place sewn up but they still fought hard before falling at CSKA Moscow on Tuesday in the EuroLeague Women.
The Italians, winners of seven straight games, ended group play with three straight defeats.
"We would have liked to win but we didn't do everything for that," said Umana Reyer coach Massimo Riga.
"We are still satisfied with the overall result because we finished first in the group."
CSKA's Belgium international Ann Wauters scored 19 points and grabbed 14 rebounds.
If MKB Euroleasing Sopron lose at Gambrinus Sika Brno on Wednesday, CSKA will finish second in Group B.
Otherwise, MKB will claim that vital spot.
CSKA’s season looked to be over on November 26 when the club suspended operations due to ownership problems and forfeited a game against TTT Riga.
After finding a new owner, CSKA have won two of their last three Group B games.
CSKA trailed 65-58 at the start of the fourth quarter on Tuesday.
The play that shifted the momentum was made by Katie Douglas of CSKA.
Italy international Simona Ballardini fouled Douglas while she was attempting a three and she made all the free throws to close the gap to 65-61 and spark a 10-0 CSKA run.
Umana Reyer went back in front one last time at 71-70 after a Mery Andrade jumper but Douglas hit a jump shot and then split one of two at the line the next trip down the floor for a 73-71 advantage.
CSKA stayed on top the rest of the way.
Gundars Vetra, the coach of CSKA Moscow, is hoping the triumph gives his players some confidence heading into the play-offs.
"It is great to end the [regular] season with a victory, and moreover against a team that finished first in our EuroLeague group."
FIBA
