Fantasy tips, Round 9: Mid-tier magic and value finds

There are plenty of smart opportunities in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge market this week. Javier Gancedo breaks them down

The EuroLeague marathon rolls on with Round 9 – a single-round week, meaning players and coaches have a little extra time to prepare. Last week provided a wealth of new information, as several players stepped up to take on bigger roles. But first, let’s review what Igor Petrinovic recommended last time.

Igor’s “budget edition” focused on players priced under 6.0 credits, so there’s little room for criticism. True, Arijan Lakic of Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade managed a PIR of -1 across the double-round week, but the rest of Igor’s picks hit nicely. Stefan Miljenovic of Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade tallied a combined PIR of 15.3 over two games – an excellent return for 4.1 credits. Sebastian Herrera of Paris Basketball was sensational and is now one of the must-have players in the game. Giampaolo Ricci of EA7 Emporio Armani Milan gained 0.3 credits, taking advantage of extra minutes, while Kosta Kondic of Dubai Basketball averaged a PIR of 7.0. Solid work, Igor!

This week, I’m going for slightly pricier players – not the superstars, but those with strong upside and reasonable cost. Here are my recommendations for Round 9:

Isiaha Mike, FC Bayern Munich (9.5 credits)

Isiaha Mike is coming off a superb double-round week, averaging 23.0 points on 10-of-12 two-pointers, 5.5 rebounds, 6.0 fouls drawn, and a PIR of 27.0. His career-high 29 points against Real Madrid could mark a turning point in his season. Talented and full of confidence, expect more strong performances ahead.

Joel Parra, FC Barcelona (6.5 credits)

With Toko Shengelia sidelined due to an ankle injury, coach Joan Penarroya will need to improvise at power forward. Joel Parra’s versatility and instant impact make him a great budget pick – he’s ready to deliver when his team needs it most.

Moses Wright, Zalgiris Kaunas (12.4 credits)

Moses Wright has quietly become a force in limited minutes. He posted 14 points, 8 rebounds, and a PIR of 23 in Round 7, then followed up with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and a PIR of 22 in just 18 minutes the next game. He reportedly injured his wrist in the Lithuanian League this past weekend, but if he's good to go in Round 9, at 12.4 credits he remains an undervalued gem.

Quinn Ellis, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (7.1 credits)

Quinn Ellis continues to impress as Milan’s all-around guard. Even with Nico Mannion back, Ellis has kept a solid role – producing 7 points and a PIR of 13 in Round 8, followed by a PIR of 20 in domestic action. His value is steadily climbing.

Rodions Kurucs, Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (6.2 credits)

A bit of a gamble, but one with serious upside. Rodions Kurucs has shown flashes lately, using his size and strength effectively on both ends. He posted a PIR of 16 against Efes and followed with a PIR of 12 in a dramatic comeback win in the Spanish League. At just 6.2 credits, he’s worth the risk.