Virtus Bologna remains stuck in the EuroLeague: fans are calling for two players
Virtus Bologna lost 103-91 on the road against Anadolu Efes, suffering its fifth consecutive EuroLeague defeat and its fifth loss in its last six games across all competitions. The final score underscored the struggles of Alex Mumbrú’s team, particularly on the defensive end: on social media, several fans criticized the 60 points conceded in the middle two quarters and singled out two players in particular—Sasha Djordevic and Awudu Abass.
Among those in the stands was the Serbian coach himself, now with Bahcesehir but a key figure in the 2018–2019 Champions League victories and, above all, the 2020–2021 Scudetto. Virtus itself dedicated a social media post to Djordjevic, with unanimous comments from fans. “The man we should have signed at all costs,” wrote one fan, while others added, “We miss you, coach,” receiving numerous likes within minutes.
Under the post about the final score, however, the reactions were harsh and merciless. Among the most common comments: “How embarrassing. Are we ever going to defend?”, “Everyone who plays against us has the game of their life,” and “I don’t know, do we want to give up more than 100 points per game?” Other fans pointed the finger at the team: “Enthusiasm and energy are two elements that are starting to be sorely lacking,” wrote one supporter. Some even offered a touch of irony: “In the new arena, you might as well leave the ring up there closed…”
Many comments pinpointed the two key issues that need to be addressed: defense and the leaders’ performance. It is in this context that another name invoked by the fans comes into play: Awudu Abass. “We need to start playing and defending hard right away; with opponents like this, you can’t let the first two quarters slip away,” “Abi needs to come back as soon as possible, but where are Moore and Edwards?” Abass, who has long been close to returning to the Vu Nere, has not yet signed; the club is negotiating with Dubai, with the salary split being a key issue to resolve.
