Check out what the protagonists are saying ahead of Round 2 of the 2025-26 EuroCup season, and who might be missing in action.

Round 2: Pregame quotes and injury reports

## Wednesday, October 8

### Bahcesehir College Istanbul vs. Umana Reyer Venice (18:00 CEST)

**Neven Spahija, Reyer head coach**

"We have a top-level challenge awaiting us in Istanbul. Bahçeşehir is an excellent team, and the results speak for themselves: they have dominated the games we've analyzed, both in the EuroCup and the Turkish League. They possess a deep roster, with quality players both in the starting five and coming off the bench, which makes them, without a doubt, among the contenders for the final EuroCup victory. We are well aware of the difficulty, but we are here with a precise goal: to take a step forward in our growth path. We are only at the beginning of the season, and the key is consistency. We want to build on the solid defense we showed in our last outing, improve our execution on offense, but above all, remain focused on competing at our maximum potential for the entire forty minutes."

**Leonardo Candi, Reyer guard**

"First of all, I'm very happy that we got the first win in the domestic league. Now, we dive into the EuroCup. We have prepared for the game against a well-equipped team with strong players. We are definitely expecting a hostile environment, so we'll have to be good at managing that aspect as well. We need to focus on our own things, continue on our path of growth, and do what the coach asks of us, always staying positive and proactive to try and get the win."

**Injury report**: Reyer confirmed there are no injured players for Round 2.

### NINERS Chemnitz vs. Lietkabelis Panevezys (19:00 CEST)

\--

### Aris Thessaloniki Betsson vs. Veolia Towers Hamburg (19:00 CEST)

**Bogdan Karaicic, Aris head coach**

"Hamburg is a good team and has the right philosophy in the way they play. They lost a few games early in the season, but we’re not in our best shape either, given the injuries we’re dealing with. I respect Hamburg, they’re not an easy opponent, and it won’t be an easy game for us."

**Bryce Jones, Aris guard**

"I’m really excited and looking forward to having our fans in the arena to support us in this big game. We’re ready. It’s in the nature of our job to move forward after every game. We’re dealing with some injuries, but we’ll do our best to keep pushing ahead."

### Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse vs. Turk Telekom Ankara (19:30 CEST)

**Frederic Fauthoux, Bourg head coach**

"Turk Telekom is a team full of talent and experience, with players who are familiar with European competitions. We'll need to put in a strong performance to win at home. They'll want to react just like us, so it'll be a great game."

**Tre Mitchell, Bourg forward**

"It’s our first home game so it’s important to have a good first impression for our crowd. Turk Telekom is a talented team with experienced players. They shoot a lot, so we have to be disciplined and try to slow them down. We're looking forward to playing in front of our fans at home. We're ready to fight and give it our all!"

**Injury report**: Will McDowell-White will be out for this game

### Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem vs. Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (20:00 CEST)

**Zvezdan Mitrovic, Cedevita Olimpija head coach**

"We have a series of demanding games ahead of us, so the wins in the opening matchups of the EuroCup and ABA League are extremely important. We are still in the phase of getting to know each other and building team chemistry. Hapoel is among the main favorites to win the EuroCup title. They have added quality reinforcements to last season’s roster, and the club operates with a large budget. Last season, we pulled off a big surprise against them in Bulgaria, which opened the door for us to the playoffs, while in the first part of the season in Ljubljana, they beat us convincingly. This season, they’ve further strengthened their team with several quality players. They are the favorites, but we will try to surprise them again. We’ll use the one day we have in Ljubljana to prepare as best as possible, and on Tuesday we’re already heading to Belgrade, followed by a trip to Podgorica."

**Thomas Kennedy, Cedevita Olimpija center**

"The game against Hapoel will be an important test for us, as it will show how we can perform in a demanding EuroCup road game. In every competition, wins in such away games carry great weight—alongside those we need to secure on our home court. The team is still building chemistry and getting to know each other, so this game will be an excellent opportunity to continue our process of growth and progress."

**David Skara, Cedevita Olimpija center**

"We’ve achieved two important victories that have boosted the team’s confidence, helped build the right chemistry, and delighted our fans. Now we face two challenging but very important away games. Both opponents we’ll meet this week are quality teams, but we’re heading into these matches with confidence. Hapoel and Buducnost achieved excellent results in international competitions last season, and both teams have further strengthened their rosters, so we know the task ahead won’t be easy. Nevertheless, we’ll give our best to return to Ljubljana with two wins."

### Buducnost VOLI Podgorica vs. Dolomiti Energia Trento (20:00 CEST)

**Andrej Zakelj, Buducnost head coach**

"We must be ready, first and foremost, for their fast-paced game. Although they suffered a loss in the first round of the EuroCup, in the Italian league they recorded an impressive 40-point victory. They score many easy points and play extremely quickly, making them a very athletic team. Our primary task is to get back on defense quickly and try to limit their transition game as much as possible. Their style relies heavily on one-on-one actions and pick-and-rolls, so focus and toughness will be key for this match. On offense, we need to play smart. They are aggressive, and our goal is to punish their defensive weaknesses, play with confidence, and secure the win."

**Oleksandr Kovliar, Buducnost forward**

"It's a good team we’re facing, very fast and athletic, so we need to be fully focused on defense and try to limit their speed and quick transitions. I think that will be our main plan for the game. We know they can score easily if we’re not alert, so it’s crucial that we communicate on the court, stay aggressive, and make smart decisions on both ends. If we execute our game plan and stay disciplined, I believe we can control the tempo and give ourselves the best chance to win."

**Injury report**: Buducnost has confirmed it has no reported injuries for Round 2.

**DeVante’ Jones, Trento guard**

"In our next EuroCup game we’ll face Buducnost, a very solid team full of veterans. I know their group well because I faced them twice last year in the ABA League: they’re a physical team with a lot of talent in the backcourt, like Yogi Ferrell and Mays, and they have strong big men and very athletic forwards. It’s going to be an important game for us - we’re coming off a great win against Cantu that gave us confidence and good momentum, also thanks to our amazing fans. We’re heading to Podgorica with confidence, knowing that if we bring the same energy and intensity we showed \[over the weekend\], we can compete and give ourselves a real chance to win."

### BAXI Manresa vs. Slask Wroclaw (20:45 CEST)

\--

## Tuesday, October 7

### Neptunas Klaipeda vs. U-BT Cluj-Napoca (18:00 CEST)

**Mihai Silvasan, Cluj head coach**

"A new EuroCup game that we want to win, even though it’s an away match. We’ll be facing a tough team that had a really strong start in the Lithuanian League, but I truly believe we have the necessary tools to win."

**Dusan Miletic, Cluj center**

"Even though we lost in the first round, we showed that we can play good basketball that can help us get on the winning track. We’ll be facing a strong opponent, but we’ll do everything we can to get the win."

### ratiopharm Ulm vs. Panionios Athens (19:00 CEST)

**Ty Harrelson, Ulm head coach**

"Panionios is one of the new teams in the EuroCup. They've only played two games this season, which makes preparation difficult for us. They also won against Chemnitz; we shouldn't underestimate them. It will be important for us to implement our game plan and match the physicality of their big center. It's always nice to see new faces in the arena. We want to inspire the young audience with our bold style of play for this wonderful sport."

**Luka Pavicevic, Panionios head coach**

"Our second round of the EuroCup leads us back to another strong German team, as we're going to be guests at Ulm. We're expecting another very competitive and intense opponent at their court this time. They went through four victories last week and we are hoping for a strong game in their court and against an opponent who has proven its presence in the BBL and in the EuroCup."

**Michalis Lountzis, Panionios guard**

"We expect a tough game against a very good and quality team that already has four wins in as many games in both the EuroCup and the German League. We know how difficult this game will be, but we want to show improvement and be fully ready to present the image of a good team."

### Besiktas GAIN Istanbul vs. London Lions (19:00 CEST)

\--

BAXI Manresa v Slask Wroclaw (2025-10-08T18:45:00.000Z)

Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem v Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (2025-10-08T18:00:00.000Z)

Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse v Turk Telekom Ankara (2025-10-08T17:30:00.000Z)

NINERS Chemnitz v Lietkabelis Panevezys (2025-10-08T17:00:00.000Z)

Aris Thessaloniki Betsson v Veolia Towers Hamburg (2025-10-08T17:00:00.000Z)

Bahcesehir College Istanbul v Umana Reyer Venice (2025-10-08T16:00:00.000Z)

Buducnost VOLI Podgorica v Dolomiti Energia Trento (2025-10-08T18:00:00.000Z)

ratiopharm Ulm v Panionios Athens (2025-10-07T17:00:00.000Z)

Besiktas GAIN Istanbul v London Lions (2025-10-07T17:00:00.000Z)

Neptunas Klaipeda v U-BT Cluj-Napoca (2025-10-07T16:00:00.000Z)

Bryce Jones spoke with Euroleague.net's Javier Gancedo to discuss his start to life with Aris BC, his return to the EuroCup, and much more.

Bryce Jones, Aris: 'There's no ceiling for me'

[Bryce Jones](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/bryce-jones/012621/) made a powerful statement in his BKT EuroCup return, leading [Aris Thessaloniki Betsson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/aris-thessaloniki-betsson/ari/) to an impressive [81–85 road win against Umana Reyer Venice](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/aris-roars-its-way-to-81-85-win-at-reyer/) to open the 2025–26 season. Jones was everywhere at Palasport Taliercio, finishing with 26 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, which saw him earn him co-MVP of the Round honors.

No stranger to the competition, Jones previously played in the EuroCup with [U-BT Cluj-Napoca](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/u-bt-cluj-napoca/clu/), helping the team reach the 2023–24 quarterfinals. Last season, he was the Adriatic League’s top scorer, averaging 18.5 points per game for Igokea. Now with Aris, he feels he’s found the perfect fit — playing for a coach who believes in him, a GM like Nikos Zisis who offers elite insight, and in front of a fan base that lives and breathes basketball.

"I am honored to play here. I love playing for historic clubs — it feels different," Jones told Javier Gancedo of Euroleague.net. "I’m just super excited for what the future holds for this club. I am a part of the beginning of a new era for Aris basketball. I take pride in that and am just thankful that I am in this position. Like I said, it has been an amazing experience so far."

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**Q: Congrats on the big win in Venice. How much of a statement was it to beat one of the top teams on the road? What allowed you to perform so well, both personally and as a team?**

"Honestly, I just feel like I worked extremely hard up to that point. Our preseason was up and down, which was good for us. We were learning our strengths and weaknesses, and once we figured out what our niche was, Coach \[Bogdan Karaicic\] gave me a leadership role and I just took full advantage of it. The preparation, the hard work... we practiced really hard before that game. That helped us win a tough one on the road.

"And our fans being there made it not feel like a road game. They’re loud, they cheer whether we're winning or losing. So in the back of my mind, I knew we had support no matter how the game went, and it just turned out in our favor."

**Q: You made an immediate impact in your first EuroCup game with Aris. Besides Coach Karaicic's support, was there anything specific you worked on over the past year and a half away from the EuroCup?**

"Yeah, it's definitely a mix of both. First, I want to thank Bogdan for believing in me and giving me the confidence I have. He lets me play my game, and that’s a player’s dream — to play freely. We don’t have to hesitate or second-guess our actions, and that gives us an edge.

"Personally, I just invest in myself every summer. I train really hard. We only get a short offseason — two months, really. Most people take time off, but I don’t. I take pride in the hard work, knowing that when big opportunities come, I’ll be ready. So yeah, credit to Coach, and credit to myself for being disciplined and consistent with how I train and take care of my body."

**Q: You’ve returned to the EuroCup after a year in the Adriatic League, where you were the top scorer. How do you feel you’ve improved since your last EuroCup stint?**

"I think you nailed it — experience. This is my eighth season, my second time in the EuroCup. I’ve also played two years in the BCL. I’ve had different roles — at Cluj, I didn’t always have the ball. Some nights I had to be aggressive, but mostly I was there to get guys involved, be unselfish. Coach \[Mihai\] Silvasan really pushed me on that, and I bought in. We finished second, and I learned how to be a star in my role.

"Then last season, I played for one of my old coaches at FMP in the BCL, and he let me play my game. I got to play on a big stage again, which helped a lot. Playing both roles — role player and leader — gave me a new understanding of how to approach the game. And now, the game has slowed down for me. I can read everything better, and I feel like I’m in full control."

**Q: You played with Johnathan Stark at Murray State, and he played for Aris a couple of years ago. Did you talk to him before signing?**

"For sure. When Aris called, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew Stark had played here, so I hit him up immediately. I asked about the off-court stuff — what the city was like, what living here felt like. He had nothing but good things to say. He said the city was alive, the living conditions were great, and the fans were amazing. I trusted him because we’ve been teammates, and he didn’t lie — everything he said has been true. It’s working out pretty well."

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**Q: You also have Nikos Zisis as GM, a EuroLeague champion and someone with high basketball IQ. What’s it like having him around?**

"I take full advantage of that every day. During preseason, he was around a lot — quiet, observing. I’m kind of the same way. After a tournament, when I felt stuck, I started asking him questions. I wanted to see the game through his eyes. He was a different kind of point guard than me — more pass-first, amazing vision. He gave me some gems that I’ll keep to myself, but most importantly, he gave me confidence.

"He told me not to overthink, just be who I am. That’s what everyone is seeing now: Bryce Jones being Bryce Jones. I’m just being myself, and he’s in my corner, boosting me with confidence every day. I ask him a million questions — I hope he doesn’t get tired of me — but I want to keep learning. He’s genuine, he’ll do anything to help me, and I’m thankful to have someone like that in my corner."

**Q: Have you missed the EuroCup since you were last in it?**

"Yes, for sure. When you come to Europe, you want to play in the EuroLeague or EuroCup — these are the top leagues. When I was in Cluj, I was super excited to put that EuroCup jersey on. I didn’t get to come back right away, but I always knew if I did, I’d be ready. I missed it — the pace, the physicality, the skill level. I love everything about this league, and I’m just happy to be back and thriving."

**Q: What’s it like playing in front of Aris fans?**

"Man, I can’t even put it into words. For most of my career, I’ve been waiting to play for fans like this. They’re so passionate, so connected to the players. I’m a passionate player, and they match that energy. It’s bigger than basketball — they’re our backbone. When the players and the fans align, they’re unstoppable. Aris is big on energy — this whole club runs on it. This is exactly what I prayed for: big crowds, ecstatic fans. I’m blessed to be here. Just yesterday, I was out with my family and people were honking their horns. This is real love — nothing fake about it. I’m genuinely enjoying the process here, and it’s only been two months. It already feels amazing."

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**Q: You’ve worked your way up from JuCo to Montenegro to now. Does that make this moment even sweeter?**

"Of course. What I’ve learned — and am still learning — is that it’s all about the journey. It’s not how you start or where you finish, it’s what you do in between. I wouldn’t change anything I went through to get here. It was hard, for sure. I felt overlooked for a long time. But I never stopped believing in myself. I don’t seek validation, I hold myself accountable. Every day I wake up, I’m writing my own story. I started from the bottom, but I’m working my way up.

"There's no ceiling for me.

"I’m going to keep pushing and see how far I can go. You can’t play forever, so while I’m here, I’m giving it everything. At the end of my career, I just want to say I did it my way. I know more obstacles will come — every year is different. You’ve got to adapt, adjust, and keep moving. I appreciate the grind, because it’s what brought me here."

**Q: Aris is aiming high this season. How does it feel to be part of that rebuild?**

"It’s an honor. That’s what caught my eye when they called. New management, new staff — they want to bring the culture back. Aris is a historic club. And if you know me, you know I’m all about history. I’ve done some remarkable things in basketball, and this just adds another chapter.

"I am a part of the beginning of a new era for Aris basketball.

"It feels like home. No complaints. Everyone comes in smiling, the energy is great. In Europe, you hear stories about places being difficult, but this isn’t that place anymore. They’re renovating, changing things fast, and I’m just happy to be part of it."

**Q: Finally, what’s your personal goal this season?**

"I just want to keep evolving, keep growing. I want to win—I hate losing. If I can stay healthy, lead my team, and keep building with this club, I’ll be happy. But I'm not putting any limits on it.

"Like I said, there’s no ceiling for me."

More Aris News

The Greek team's star guard spoke with Javier Gancedo about his start to life with Aris and his return to the EuroCup

Fatts Russell has hit the ground running in the BKT EuroCup, delivering a standout performance in just his second game to lead U-BT Cluj-Napoca to a thrilling 102-107 road win over Neptunas Klaipeda. The dynamic guard erupted in the second half, finishing with 37 points along with 5 assists and a 38 PIR as his team grabbed its first victory of the season.

Fatts Russell already looks right at home in the EuroCup

[Fatts Russell](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/daron-russell/013943/) has hit the ground running in the BKT EuroCup, delivering a standout performance in just his second game to lead [U-BT Cluj-Napoca](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/u-bt-cluj-napoca/clu/) to [a thrilling 102-107 road win over Neptunas Klaipeda](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/cluj-edges-neptunas-in-back-and-forth-road-battle-102-107/). The dynamic guard erupted in the second half, finishing with 37 points along with 5 assists and a 38 PIR as his team grabbed its first victory of the season.

Cluj struggled to find momentum and backcourt production in the first half, falling behind by 17 points in the second quarter. However, late in the half, Russell started to do his thing and helped cut into the deficit. Having scored 10 points in the opening 20 minutes, Russell returned with authority after the interval, scoring 27 second-half points and hitting 5 three-pointers.

Neptunas Klaipeda-U-BT Cluj-Napoca | Round 2 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroCup

His quick first step proved a real challenge for defenders, often drawing fouls and sending Cluj to the free-throw line. Beyond his ability to attack the rim with ease, Russell’s three crucial three-pointers in the fourth quarter were key in Cluj securing the win.

In the postgame interview, Russell reflected on the game, saying: "It was a tough game in which they made a lot of three-point shots. We battled hard, especially in the second half, and I'm just happy we came out with the win.’’ 

Coach Mihail Silvasan also praised the American player’s performance in the postgame press conference, stating: ‘‘It’s obvious that he was amazing. I hope he will be the MVP of the Round, because we won the game.’’

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Another key contributor to the win was [Nathan Mensah](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/nathan-mensah/013514/), who posted a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds. After the victory, the Ghanaian center reflected on the team’s effort, noting: ‘‘We started slow but as things went on we had to channel our inner strength to play. Even if we had a smaller rotation, that was no excuse to give this game away. Winning this game means a lot for our future in EuroCup, so this was a point of emphasis for the team." 

Cluj’s triumph, inspired by an MVP-like performance by Russell, showed what this team is capable of in the EuroCup. Now, Coach Silvasan's side will look to build on this momentum when it takes on Slask Wroclaw — again on the road — in Round 3.

Game News

He inspired Cluj's comeback win at Neptunas

Besiktas GAIN Istanbul showed glimpses of what the Turkish side is capable of with a sound 99-73 home demolition of the London Lions in Round 2 of the BKT EuroCup, bouncing back from the opening 85-79 setback at Lietkabelis Panevezys.

Besiktas was red-hot against Lions after a cold shower in Round 1

[Besiktas GAIN Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/besiktas-gain-istanbul/bes/) showed glimpses of what the Turkish side is capable of with a sound [99-73 home demolition of the London Lions](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/rampant-besiktas-tames-london-lions-99-73/) in Round 2 of the BKT EuroCup, bouncing back from the opening [85-79 setback at Lietkabelis Panevezys](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/lietkabelis-secures-surprise-home-win-over-besiktas-85-79/).

Besiktas relied on a deep roster to make the Lions look like alley cats in a one-sided clash, as six home players scored in double figures while the hosts also took much better care of the ball.

The Turkish outfit dished out a team 23 assists against just 9 turnovers, whereas the Lions had 17 assists and 14 turnovers, having struggled to deal with relentless half-court pressure from Besiktas.  

Besiktas GAIN Istanbul-London Lions | Round 2 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroCup

It was one-way traffic from start to finish as London’s much changed roster looked a pale shadow of the side which stunned Europe when it reached the EuroCup Semifinals in 2024 before taking a one-year sabbatical from European competition.

In contrast, Besiktas showed the potential to emerge as one of this term’s favorites, provided the Turkish side can stay consistent and avoid slip-ups like the one in Lithuania last week.

Exactly the concept the home team’s head coach Dusan Alimpijevic highlighted in his postgame comments, in fact. “Every win in the EuroCup is important and this one especially so as we’ve had some long trips and several more coming up,” said Alimpijevic, who was recently promoted to the Serbian national team’s head coach.

“I am happy that we were able to find our rhythm, particularly on offense. We have a lot of things to improve defensively but I believe in this team and I am sure we will get better and better. It’s early days and we should be able to raise the level of our performances.”

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">Gecenin galibiyet üçlüsü. 🤫<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheBlackEagleRises?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheBlackEagleRises</a> 🦅 <a href="https://t.co/BoalhJvGEW">pic.twitter.com/BoalhJvGEW</a></p>&mdash; Beşiktaş GAİN (@BJK_Basketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJK_Basketbol/status/1975642661081026823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Besiktas also dominated long-range territory as it made 13 of 29 shots from downtown while the Lions hit a mere 6 of 21 in the wake of aggressive defense from the home side, which scored 17 points off London turnovers. 

In a nutshell, it was a thoroughly deserved win for Besiktas by a whopping margin which in way flattered the home team, but the Lions have a mountain to climb if they are to make any kind of impact in Europe this season.

The Turkish side came up with a fine performance following a setback in the opening game of the season

Christian Sengfelder made headlines this summer when he announced he would be returning to Germany after one season abroad, having signed for ratiopharm ulm, where he would make his BKT EuroCup debut. And the 30-year-old big man has shined bright through the first two games of the campaign. 

EuroCup rookie Christian Sengfelder helping Ulm find ways to win 

[Christian Sengfelder](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/christian-sengfelder/013917/) made headlines this summer when he announced he would be returning to Germany after one season abroad, having signed for [ratiopharm ulm](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/ratiopharm-ulm/ulm/), where he would make his BKT EuroCup debut. And the 30-year-old big man has shined bright through the first two games of the campaign.

Sengfelder collected 20 points on 9-of-14 shots to go with 7 rebounds, 5 of them from the offensive glass, 2 assists and 1 steal for a 22 performance index rating in [Ulm’s 103-96 home victory over Panionios Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/ulm-prevails-in-thrilling-shootout-with-panionios-103-96/) in Round 2.

ratiopharm ulm-Panionios Athens | Round 2 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroCup

“In the end, we just got a couple more stops than they did. It was a high-scoring game — a little too high scoring for us and what we would like. But in the end, we are very happy that we protected home court. That’s what this competition is about. You have to protect home court and you try to steal something on the road,” said Sengfelder, who last season was playing in France for JDA Dijon.

Sengfelder, who helped the German national team take third place at the FIBA EuroBasket 2022, collected 11 points and 7 assists in Ulm’s first game of the EuroCup season — [a road win over Turk Telekom Ankara](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/ulm-stuns-turk-telekom-on-the-road-93-96/).

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="de" dir="ltr">𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙚𝙨 🔥<br> <br>Beim ersten 𝘛𝘢𝘨 𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘈𝘶𝘴𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘶𝘯𝘨 gewinnen wir in einer spannenden Crunchtime gegen Panionios Athen.<br> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/uuulmer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#uuulmer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/weareone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#weareone</a> | 📷 Harry Langer <a href="https://t.co/e5vDaeyz61">pic.twitter.com/e5vDaeyz61</a></p>&mdash; ratiopharm ulm (@ratiopharmulm) <a href="https://twitter.com/ratiopharmulm/status/1975642560405143639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Sengfelder is one of many newcomers this season to the Ulm side, which also has a number of young players. And the veteran big man said the team is working hard to get accustomed to each other.

“That is the challenge for us as a team in general. We have a lot of new guys, a lot of young guys, a lot of inexperienced guys who are in this competition for the first time - myself included. It’s just about finding rhythm, getting on the same page with our teammates,” he said.

“We are doing this. We are finding ways to win, which is the most important thing.”

Sengfelder not only scored 20 points but he also played 25 minutes and did not commit a turnover. That was part of Ulm’s winning formula, as the team committed only 9 turnovers. That was Ulm’s way of winning this one.

The 30-year-old German big man has shined early in his first games in the EuroCup

Besiktas GAIN Istanbul cruised to an emphatic 99-73 home win over the London Lions in Group B of the BKT EuroCup, with the hosts improving to 1-1 while their opponents suffered a second successive crushing defeat.

Rampant Besiktas tames London Lions, 99-73

Besiktas GAIN Istanbul cruised to an emphatic 99-73 home win over the London Lions in Group B of the BKT EuroCup, with the hosts improving to 1-1 while their opponents suffered a second successive crushing defeat.

Croatian big man Ante Zizic paced a balanced Besiktas roster on 17 points, leading a pack of six home players who finished on double digits. Vito Brown scored 16 points for the Turkish outfit, Berk Ugurlu netted 12 while Yigit Arslan, Devon Dotson and Brynton Lemar chipped in with 11 each.

Amin Adamu led the Lions on 14 points, Joel Scott added 13 and Tarik Phillip added 12, including a spectacular dunk midway in the second half which turned out to be a flash in the pan. 

Game Videos

The London outfit failed to recover from the opening round’s 59-86 home drubbing at the hands of Buducnost VOLI Podgorica, suggesting that they face a tall order to replicate the 2024 accomplishment when the Lions reached the competition’s semifinals.

The visitors had no reply for Besiktas’s high-tempo game as the home team found plenty of open shots and rained down the three-pointers, nailing 13 of 29 from downtown as it also dominated the offensive boards in the first half.

Besiktas racked up 10 offensive rebounds and as many in its own paint in the opening 20 minutes, making its size count, while the Turkish outfit’s smooth movement of the ball also opened up a barrage of open shots from long range.

The Lions looked capable of staying in the hunt when they slashed a somewhat flattering 50-37 halftime deficit to 56-46 early in the third quarter, but that turned out to be their last roar of the evening.

An 18-7 run gave Besiktas a massive 74-53 lead ahead of the final 10 minutes and although Phillip lit up the lop-sided contest with a vicious dunk early in the fourth quarter, there was no way back for the visitors.

The home side’s advantage soon swelled to 87-61 and Besiktas kept firing on all cylinders until the final buzzer, earning a reprieve for the opening round’s shock 85-79 defeat at Lietkabelis Panevezys.

The Turkish side kept its foot on the gas throughout to earn its maiden EuroCup win of the season

ratiopharm ulm won its first home game of the BKT EuroCup season with a thrilling 103-96 victory over Panionios Athens to remain perfect in Group B. Ulm at times led by as many as 11 points but it was a tight battle throughout, the hosts needing their 16 three-pointers en route to a 2-0 record.

Ulm prevails in thrilling shootout with Panionios, 103-96

ratiopharm ulm won its first home game of the BKT EuroCup season with a thrilling 103-96 victory over Panionios Athens to remain perfect in Group B. Ulm at times led by as many as 11 points but it was a tight battle throughout, the hosts needing their 16 three-pointers en route to a 2-0 record.

Christian Sengfelder and Christopher Ledlum both scored 20 points for Ulm while Nelson Weidemann hit 4 three-pointers for 16 points, Mark Smith had 14 points and Tobias Jensen chipped in 13 points and 4 assists. Panionios dropped its first game of the season for a 1-1 mark. Opening-round hero Jaylen Hands poured in 23 points and Matt Lewis scored 18 points, both players hitting 4 three-pointers in the defeat.

Weidemann and Ledlum hit three-pointers as Ulm tallied the first six points of the game. Weidemann drained another triple and the lead was 15-4. Giorgos Tsalmpouris sparked Panionios with a three-pointer among his 5 points and an assist to get the Greeks within 19-15. But Ulm knocked down three more three-pointers and led 28-22 after 10 minutes.

Ulm failed to score in the first two minutes of the second quarter and Panionios got three triples — two from Hands — to pull ahead for the first time at 30-31. Ulm punched back with the next eight points before Panionios answered with six points to pull within 38-37. Ulm temporarily pushed the advantage to six points and was leading 52-47 at the break.

Hands’s triple to start the second half made it a two-point game, but the Ulm sharpshooters remained hot with three three-pointers — two more from Weidemann — for a 63-52 lead. Hands helped Panionois get closer and Tsalmpouris’s triple closed the gap to 72-71. Ulm answered with the final five points of the third quarter to lead 77-71.

Ulm could not really pull away but did go 82-75 ahead early in the final frame. Hands and Lewis hit three-pointers to make it a one-point game, only to see Jensen knock down two triples at the other end as Ulm was up 95-88 with under 3 minutes to play. Panionios twice trimmed it to four points and Nate Watson could only split two free throws to make it 99-93 with 18 seconds to play. Both teams committed turnovers, then Smith iced the game with a layup after inbounding his pass off Hands’s backside.

The German side buried 16 three-pointers and now has a 2-0 record

U-BT Cluj-Napoca grabbed its first win of the 2025-26 BKT EuroCup campaign by beating Neptunas Klaipeda 102-107 in a hard-fought battle at Svyturio Arena. Led by Fatts Russell’s 37 points and 5 assists, Cluj stayed solid in the closing minutes to secure an important home win. 

Cluj edges Neptunas in back-and-forth road battle, 102-107

U-BT Cluj-Napoca grabbed its first win of the 2025-26 BKT EuroCup campaign by beating Neptunas Klaipeda 102-107 in a hard-fought battle at Svyturio Arena. Led by Fatts Russell’s 37 points and 5 assists, Cluj stayed solid in the closing minutes to secure an important home win.

In addition to Russell, the visitors could lean on Mitch Creek, who had 20 points and 4 rebounds, and Karel Guzman, who contributed 13 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Nathan Mensah also delivered a double-double with 15 points and 13 boards for a PIR of 26. On the other side, Donatas Tarolis paced Neptunas with 21 points and 5 assists, followed by Arnas Velicka, who finished with 19 points and 7 assists.

The game opened with Cluj on offense as Creek put his team on the board with a two-pointer. Both teams focused on scoring inside early on, with Cluj attacking the paint more. During the first five minutes, the visitors attempted only one shot from beyond the arc. Toward the end of the quarter, Cluj attempted several threes but couldn’t find its rhythm. The lead reached double digits as the quarter closed at 30-19.

The second quarter began with a layup from Mensah, as Cluj continued to attack the rim in search of easy points. Cluj’s first three-pointer of the period came from Guzman, cutting the deficit to 13, but a quick response from Velicka, turning a turnover into a layup, restored the double-digit margin. Guzman struck again from deep, while Russell kept Cluj in the game before the visitors found their rhythm toward the end of the half, trimming the gap to eight, 56-48, at the interval.

Cluj carried its momentum into the third quarter, with Russell, Creek and Mensah scoring inside to cut the deficit to two. Richard Lomasz hit a three-pointer to open Neptunas’s second-half scoring, followed by shots from Martynas Pacevicius and Velicka to restore a double-digit lead. Cluj responded through Mensah and Creek before Russell’s three-pointer made it a five-point game. From Neptunas, Tarolis and Harrison Cleary each added timely buckets to keep their team in front, 78-77.

The final quarter opened with a free throw from Guzman, tying the game for the first time in a long stretch. Neptunas responded with back-to-back three-pointers, but Russell answered with two triples. Guzman’s layup gave Cluj its first lead since the opening quarter. Tarolis stepped up for Neptunas, trading threes as both sides exchanged blows down the stretch. Mensah came up with a crucial offensive rebound, and Molinar’s floater to make it 105-102 proved to be the turning point. Cluj then sealed the deal from the free-throw line.

The Romanian side improved to 1-1 after coming back from 17 points down

The sports club that was established in 1919 and has had the services of names like Dusan Ivkovic and Zarko Paspalj, is back in continental competitions, picking up from where it left off.
If you are a basketball junkie, or even worse, a basketball hipster, then your team should be Panionios Athens. It's not just the fact that it won in overtime in its first EuroCup game since 2014 in dramatic fashion with back-to-back threes by Jalen Hands against NINERS Chemnitz.

Panionios honors club legacy with EuroCup return

If you are a basketball junkie, or even worse, a basketball hipster, then your team should be [Panionios Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/panionios-athens/nio/). It's not just the fact that it won in overtime in its first EuroCup game since 2014 in dramatic fashion with back-to-back threes by [Jalen Hands](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jaylen-hands/013914/) against NINERS Chemnitz.

Read more [HERE](https://www.eurohoops.net/en/trademarks/1877161/panionios-honors-club-legacy-with-eurocup-return/).

The sports club that was established in 1919 and has had the services of names like Dusan Ivkovic and Zarko Paspalj, is back in continental competitions, picking up from where it left off