EA7 Emporio Armani Milan has signed Freddie Gillespie to help address the injury to star big man Josh Nebo

Milan inks Freddie Gillespie to fortify frontline 

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan has signed [Freddie Gillespie](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/freddie-gillespie/011941/) to help address the injury to star big man Josh Nebo. 

Gillespie (2.06 meters, 27 years old) has two seasons of Turkish Airlines EuroLeague experience under his belt with FC Bayern Munich and Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade. He averaged 3.5 points, 4.3 rebounds and 0.7 blocks in EuroLeague 62 games – including 29 as a starter.

With the New Zealand Breakers this season, he posted 6.9 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.8 blocks in nine games.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="it" dir="ltr">Freddie Gillespie all’Olimpia. “Qui c’è una storia di risultati eccellenti di cui voglio far parte”<br><br>Leggi il comunicato 👉<a href="https://t.co/kJFnaG7reY">https://t.co/kJFnaG7reY</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/insieme?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#insieme</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForzaOlimpia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForzaOlimpia</a> <a href="https://t.co/PDVWQcCJj0">pic.twitter.com/PDVWQcCJj0</a></p>&mdash; Olimpia Milano (@OlimpiaMI1936) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlimpiaMI1936/status/1859296070112579823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gillespie played college basketball at Carleton College and Baylor University and started his professional career with the Toronto Raptors in the NBA. He soon joined the Memphis Hustle in the G League. Gillespie has also played for the Orlando Magic in the NBA. His trophy case includes helping Zvezda win the Serbian League and Cup and the ABA League championship last season and winning the German Cup with Bayern in 2023.

Freddie Gillespie's top 5 EuroLeague blocks

More Milan news

The center began the season with the New Zealand Breakers 

Gabriele Procida announced himself to the EuroLeague in the 2022-23 season with open-court dunks among a host of highlight-reel plays. What we're seeing from the 22-year-old forward in this current campaign, however, goes further than some spectacular plays.

Gabriele Procida is finding his way with ALBA Berlin

[Gabriele Procida](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/gabriele-procida/008384/) announced himself to the EuroLeague in the 2022-23 season with open-court dunks among a host of highlight-reel plays. What we're seeing from the 22-year-old forward in this current campaign, however, goes further than some spectacular plays.

The reigning EuroLeague Rising Star, who claimed the award last season despite injuries limiting his playing opportunities, twice improved his EuroLeague career highs in recent weeks: first against Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade in Round 8 and then in the miraculous win over EA7 Emporio Armani Milan.

When [ALBA Berlin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/alba-berlin/ber/) needed him to answer, Procida picked up the phone.

**Making the best out of a difficult situation**

"I'm feeling way better than one year ago," he explained to Cesare Milanti of Eurohoops. "Unfortunately, it was a difficult preseason. I twisted the same ankle twice. Staying out and missing the first games of the season wasn't easy" he recalled about opening the 2024-25 campaign at less than 100 percent.

"I wasn't ready, and I immediately did my all both on the court and in practice. I wasn't feeling at ease during the four or five months when I stayed out", he said, referring to the injury problems he suffered through last year when he could play in only 25 games out of 34 EuroLeague regular-season games.

"But now I take everything that comes to me. Not having the full squad available gives me even more playing time and a lot of occasions where I can risk a little bit more. I'm feeling great confidence-wise, I love getting my responsibilities on offense too", Procida added.

Read more of this story [HERE](https://www.eurohoops.net/en/euroleague/1744270/gabriele-procida-alba-berlin-euroleague-interview/).

More ALBA News

After a slow start to the season, the 2023-24 EuroLeague Rising Star has hit his stride

AS Monaco and head coach Sasa Obradovic have agreed to mutually part ways, the club confirmed Monday. He had a 72-42 record in charge of Monaco.

Monaco, Sasa Obradovic part ways

[AS Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/as-monaco/mco/) and head coach Sasa Obradovic have agreed to mutually part ways, the club confirmed Monday.

Obradovic was in his second spell at Monaco and had been there since December 2021. The club is currently seventh in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague with a 6-4 record.

In his almost three years in the principality, Obradovic led the club to the playoffs in its first-ever EuroLeague season in 2021-22, then its first-ever Final Four in 2022-23, before achieving a record number of regular-season wins and another playoff appearance in 2023-24.

Obradovic oversaw 104 EuroLeague games as Monaco head coach, achieving a 72-42 record in that time.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="fr" dir="ltr">L&#39;AS Monaco Basket et Sasa Obradovic ont décidé de mettre fin à leur collaboration d&#39;un commun accord. <br><br>Sasa Obradovic a apporté de la rigueur et travaillé sans relâche depuis le début de cette aventure humaine en décembre 2021, après un premier passage de 2019 à 2020. Avec au… <a href="https://t.co/S2B56whWAs">pic.twitter.com/S2B56whWAs</a></p>&mdash; AS Monaco Basket 🇲🇨 (@ASMonaco_Basket) <a href="https://twitter.com/ASMonaco_Basket/status/1858579771690807521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"AS Monaco Basket and Sasa Obradovic have decided to end their collaboration by mutual agreement, read Monaco's statement.

"Sasa Obradovic has brought rigor and worked tirelessly since the start of this adventure in December 2021, after a first stint from 2019 to 2020. With him in charge, we won two French championship titles, a French Cup, a EuroLeague Final Four, and two playoff appearances on the European stage.

"The name of Sasa Obradovic is forever inscribed in the history of the Roca Team. The management and staff sincerely thank him for the work he accomplished. 

"Manuchar Markoishvili will act as interim head coach. Thanks for everything, Coach Sasa!"

More Monaco News

He had a 72-42 record in charge of the principality club

Monaco, Sasa Obradovic mutually part ways

Welcome to the November edition of the EuroLeague Power Rankings. The following list is the brainchild of EuroLeague.net's team of experts, which is made up of Geoff Gillingham, Javier Gancedo, Frankie Sachs and Igor Petrinovic.

Power Rankings: How things look nearly one-third into the season

Welcome to the November edition of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Power Rankings. The following list is the brainchild of [EuroLeague.net](http://EuroLeague.net)'s team of experts, which is made up of [Geoff Gillingham](https://bsky.app/profile/geoffgillingham.bsky.social), [Javier Gancedo](https://x.com/ganchetto), [Frankie Sachs](https://x.com/MrEuroleague) and [Igor Petrinovic](https://x.com/IgorPetrinovic).

The power rankings represent where the experts rank if compared to all teams right now and not necessarily where they feel they will be at the end of the season.

Next to each team, there are several numbers. First is the team's record. It is followed by the highest rank on any individual ballot and the next number represents the lowest.

### 1. Olympiacos Piraeus (7-3); 1, 2

##### Preseason power rankings position: 2nd

Things are clicking for Olympiacos very fast and this is why they are first in our power rankings, despite not having the best record in the competition. Coach Georgios Bartzokas has found the perfect balance on offense, with [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/) leading the way, but a lot of players are contributing in many ways. In particular, [Evan Fournier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/evan-fournier/013380/) is looking as good as advertised and has had a crucial role in the Reds' current five-game winning streak. What's more, no team is deeper at center than Olympiacos, which has [Nikola Milutinov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nikola-milutinov/003941/), [Moustapha Fall](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/moustapha-fall/008811/) and [Moses Wright](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/moses-wright/012878/) at the '5' spot. Defense? Olympiacos has always played hard. Right now, the Reds are the team to beat. *-- Javier Gancedo*

### 2. Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (7-3); 2, 3

##### Preseason power rankings position: 1st

Not only is Panathinaikos the reigning EuroLeague champion, but it boasts the deepest roster in the league and appears to be finding its groove once again, going 5-1 over the last six games. Able to lean on the ever-reliable [Mathias Lessort](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mathias-lessort/003842/) and [Kendrick Nunn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kendrick-nunn/012774/), the Greens have such an array of options that they keep finding ways to win games. If it isn’t Lessort or Nunn, it is [Juancho Hernangomez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/juancho-hernangomez/012712/) and [Kostas Sloukas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kostas-sloukas/001926/). If it isn’t them, it’s [Jerian Grant](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jerian-grant/011204/) and [Lorenzo Brown](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/lorenzo-brown/009622/). And then there’s still ex-NBA Turkish duo [Omer Yurtseven](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/omer-yurtseven/005353/) and [Cedi Osman](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/cedi-osman/004088/), Greek pair [Ioannis Papapetrou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ioannis-papapetrou/005161/) and [Konstantinos Mitoglou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/konstantinos-mitoglou/007866/), and injured swingman [Marius Grigonis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/marius-grigonis/002328/). Panathinaikos’s depth is scary, and that will likely prove crucial in its bid to secure back-to-back EuroLeague titles. *-- Geoff Gillingham*

### 3. Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (8-2); 1, 2

##### Preseason power rankings position: 3rd

There should be little surprise to see Fenerbahce ranked so high as it boasts the best record in the league and is undefeated on the road. Coach Saras Jasikevicius's team has won five in a row despite a tough run of injuries; only two players have started every game ([Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/), [Bonzie Colson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/bonzie-colson/009783/)) and only two more have appeared in all 10 games ([Nicolo Melli](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nicolo-melli/002849/), [Khem Birch](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/khem-birch/007182/)). The way the team has continued to succeed despite the obstacles is a great sign for the future and when fully healthy, the team is a title contender. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### 4. Paris Basketball (7-3); 2, 9

##### Preseason power rankings position: 17th

What a pleasant surprise Paris has been this season. Following on from the excellent work done by Tuomas Iisalo, first-year head coach Tiago Splitter picked up the baton and has made the French outfit look like a playoff-level side in its first-ever season among Europe’s elite. There’s a strong case to be made for [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) – in his rookie season – to be one of the strongest candidates to be named the EuroLeague MVP, with the American-born guard conducting Paris’s offense and, most importantly, leading it to wins. Paris has already beaten Panathinaikos, Monaco and FC Barcelona this season, with the latter two coming on the road, and the team’s fairy-tale story shows no sign of slowing down. *-- Geoff Gillingham*

### 5. FC Barcelona (7-3); 4, 6

##### Preseason power rankings position: 5th

Barcelona has looked great in its 15-point victory over Monaco and its two road wins in Belgrade. However, it underwhelmed in road losses at Olympiacos and Paris. Barcelona’s true value is somewhere in between. The fact that Barca has successfully integrated four new players into the rotation, including October MVP [Kevin Punter](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kevin-punter/009862/), is impressive and a sign that things can get even better. While the loss of [Nico Laprovittola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/nico-laprovittola-to-undergo-knee-surgery/) for the season no doubt hurts, [Justin Anderson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/justin-anderson/012795/) and [Juan Nunez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/juan-nunez/010106/) have made great impacts to keep the team on course. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### 6. FC Bayern Munich (7-3); 5, 6

##### Preseason power rankings position: 15th

Led by a FIBA World Cup champion head coach in Gordie Herbert, maybe Bayern's improvement shouldn't have much of a surprise. But it is, and Coach Herbert deserves a lot of credit for that. A lot of EuroLeague veterans have stepped up at Bayern and are playing some of the best basketball of their careers. Center [Devin Booker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/devin-booker/007056/) looks stronger and more effective than ever (67.1% 2FG, 41.7% 3FG, 89.7% FT), [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/) is leading the competition in scoring (21.0 ppg.), and [Nick Weiler-Babb](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nick-weiler-babb/010391/) has been Bayern's glue guy (7.8 ppg., 4.9 rpg., 4.8 apg.). Things could get even better when [Vladimir Lucic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vladimir-lucic/001288/) and [Niels Giffey](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/niels-giffey/001557/) return, and SAP Garden is proving to be a fortress, with Bayern winning all five of its games at its brand-new arena. *-- Javier Gancedo*

### 7. Anadolu Efes Istanbul (6-4); 7, 8

##### Preseason power rankings position: 7th

Winners of four straight road games, despite losing [Shane Larkin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/shane-larkin/007200/) to injury, Efes has shown the mettle needed to reach the playoffs and fight for a Final Four spot. The next few weeks could prove critical, as coach Tomislav Mijatovic’s men face several teams close to it in the standings. Efes has leaned on its backcourt of [Darius Thompson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/darius-thompson/011078/) and [Elijah Bryant](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/elijah-bryant/009846/), while [Vincent Poirier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/vincent-poirier/004887/) and [Dan Oturu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dan-oturu/012788/) have provided muscle inside. With Larkin due to return and debutants [Stanley Johnson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/stanley-johnson/013364/) and [Jordan Nwora](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jordan-nwora/013363/) adjusting to the EuroLeague, Efes could be going places. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### 8. AS Monaco (6-4); 6, 9

##### Preseason power rankings position: 6th

While Monaco has not shown the form that made it a Final Four contender the last few seasons, it has also not been playing with the roster designed to get it there. [Nick Calathes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nick-calathes/001932/), who has been sidelined since the preseason, should be back soon and [Furkan Korkmaz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/furkan-korkmaz/005763/) has only played in two games so far. Even so, Monaco has won three of its last four road games and now plays three of its next four at home, which could see it charge back up the standings. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### 9. Real Madrid (4-6); 8, 9

##### Preseason power rankings position: 4th

Honestly, nobody among our editorial staff saw this coming at the start of the season. Real is struggling on the road, posting a 0-5 record away from WiZink Center, and just registered its first home defeat against Efes. The talent and experience is there, but Real has had a series of key injuries, losing [Andres Feliz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/andres-feliz/011247/), [Usman Garuba](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/usman-garuba/007630/) and [Dzanan Musa](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dzanan-musa/006540/). It is also not easy to adjust to life without retired superstars [Rudy Fernandez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/rudy-fernandez-calls-time-on-a-glittering-career/) and [Sergio Rodriguez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/three-time-euroleague-champ-sergio-rodriguez-retires/). Make no mistake: Real should bounce back and we would be surprised if we see them this low in our next power rankings. *-- Javier Gancedo*

### 10. Zalgiris Kaunas (7-3); 10-11

##### Preseason power rankings position: 13th

Just a few weeks ago, Zalgiris found itself joint top of the standings after a 6-1 start – aided by a five-game winning streak between Round 3 and 7 – but the wheels have come off lately. Andrea Trinchieri’s side has now gone three games without a win and has tumbled down the standings, with its most recent defeat – to Fenerbahce in Round 10 – seeing its perfect home record come to an end. That said, the addition of [Lonnie Walker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/lonnie-walker-iv/013403/) gives Zalgiris an elite option on offense and he is starting to get acclimatized to the EuroLeague, so there is definitely still reason for optimism. Zalgiris has the pieces to make a push towards a playoff spot, but at present its place in the play-in seems just about right. *-- Geoff Gillingham*

### 11. Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (5-5); 10, 13

##### Preseason power rankings position: 12th

It has been an up-and-down season for Zvezda. It started with a bang, recording road wins against Paris and Fenerbahce, who have barely lost after that. On the other hand, Zvezda is 1-4 in games decided by five points or less, which indicates that it could rank even higher after narrow losses against ASVEL, Zalgiris and Panathinaikos. Its game against cross-town rival Partizan arrives in a good moment and could give Zvezda a big boost. [Joel Bolomboy](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/joel-bolomboy/009035/) should be back from injury soon, too, joining forces with recent signing [Filip Petrusev](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/filip-petrusev/011194/) in the team's frontline. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### 12. Maccabi Playitka Tel Aviv (3-7); 12, 14

##### Preseason power rankings position: 14th

It’s been a tough run for the Israeli champs, which have dropped three straight games. However, last week they led against Panathinaikos in the fourth quarter and were within 1 against Olympiacos late. Coach Oded Kattash has his players competing hard, which has helped make up for the fact that [Saben Lee](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/saben-lee/013389/), [David DeJulius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/david-de-julius/013250/) and [Marial Shayok](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/marial-shayok/011202/) all joined the team after opening night, while [Tamir Blatt](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/tamir-blatt/011193/), [Wenyen Gabriel](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/wenyen-gabriel/013383/), [Rokas Jokubaitis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/rokas-jokubaitis/007519/) and [Jasiel Rivero](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/jasiel-rivero/011214/) have all missed time due to injury. How good will Maccabi be when it’s at full strength? We should know sooner rather than later. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### 13. EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (4-6); 12, 15

##### Preseason power rankings position: 8th

When you look at Milan’s roster, there is a lot to like. The reigning Italian League champion can call upon 2021-22 EuroLeague MVP [Nikola Mirotic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nikola-mirotic/000796/), an athletic center in [Josh Nebo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/josh-nebo/011199/), a do-it-all in forward [Zach LeDay](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/zach-leday/008987/), a scoring threat in [Shavon Shields](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/shavon-shields/007831/), and exciting guards in [Neno Dimitrijevic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/neno-dimitrijevic/006085/), [Nico Mannion](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/niccolo-mannion/011064/) and [Leandro Bolmaro](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/leandro-bolmaro/008985/). Yet, it hasn’t worked. Injuries have blighted Ettore Messina’s troops once again, a familiar pattern to recent seasons, with Milan going 1-5 through the first six games. However, three wins from four have calmed things down, and Milan still has the potential to go up another couple of gears once Nebo and Shields return from their injuries. Especially in the second half of the season, Milan should be a team to look out for. *-- Geoff Gillingham*

### 14. Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (4-6); 12, 15

##### Preseason power rankings position: 11th

Baskonia has been quite a Jekyll and Hyde team through the first 10 rounds. After winning its first four home games, Buesa Arena was looking like a fortress for Pablo Laso’s men, who have gone a dreadful 0-4 on the road so far. But last week’s double round saw Baskonia fall at home to Efes and Monaco, with [Markus Howard](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/markus-howard/011948/) going scoreless in both games. The American guard is Baskonia’s X-factor, so when he doesn’t play well it often results in defeat. There have been up-and-down performances across the roster, and coach Pablo Laso has had strong words of late. Still, Baskonia has one of the best home atmospheres in the EuroLeague and a number of exciting players, like Howard, [Trent Forrest](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/trent-forrest/013367/) and [Chima Moneke](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/chima-moneke/012201/), making it a potential force in the push for the play-in spots. *-- Geoff Gillingham*

### 15. LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (3-7); 10, 16

##### Preseason power rankings position: 16th

ASVEL snapped a five-game losing streak in Round 10 when it edged Crvena Zvezda. Still, it’s important to note that several of those losses came against title contenders such as Panathinaikos, Olympiacos and Fenerbahce – and that the last two of those were decided by a combined 6 points. [Theo Maledon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/theo-maledon/007027/) is establishing himself as a star and [Neal Sako](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/neal-sako/010545/) has been one of the season’s biggest surprises. Add in the presence of veterans [Nando De Colo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nando-de-colo/002100/) and [Joffrey Lauvergne](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/joffrey-lauvergne/004194/) and there is a blueprint for ASVEL making a serious run at the playoffs. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### 16. Virtus Segafredo Bologna (2-8); 14, 17

##### Preseason power rankings position: 16th

After a 0-4 start, Virtus has improved somewhat but is coming off consecutive losses in the last double-round week. Some newcomers like [Will Clyburn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/will-clyburn/004888/) and [Matt Morgan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/matthew-morgan/012585/) are struggling to find their rhythm, and others like [Rayjon Tucker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/rayjon-tucker/012591/) and [Andrejs Grazulis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/andrejs-grazulis/005738/) have barely seen playing time despite arriving In Bologna with great expectations. The team ranks last in rebounds (30.6 rpg.), too. Coach Luca Banchi managed to make Virtus play really fluid basketball last season, but the Italian side has dished just 169 assists through the first 10 games, 30 fewer than it did in the opening 10 games last season. *-- Javier Gancedo*

### 17. Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2-8); 16, 17

##### Preseason power rankings position: 9th

So far this season, Partizan has mixed flashes of brilliance with forgettable scores. There is no doubt about the ability of coach Zeljko Obradovic’s squad, but thus far it has not translated into the desired results. Do not despair, though, as Partizan is a nearly completely new team this season. As far as talent, this is a team that can compete with anyone, and Obradovic knows a thing or two about team building. When the players finally gel, Partizan just might be able to make a run at the playoffs – or the play-in. *-- Frankie Sachs*

### ALBA Berlin (2-8); 18, 18

##### Preseason power rankings position: 18th

Despite being bottom of the EuroLeague standings – and our power rankings – there are a few reasons to be cheerful if you are an ALBA fan. No team in the EuroLeague has been hit harder by injuries than ALBA, which has provided the platform for its younger talents to enjoy even bigger roles, particularly in the cases of [Matteo Spagnolo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/matteo-spagnolo/008173/), [Gabriele Procida](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/gabriele-procida/008384/) and [Trevion Williams](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/trevion-williams-/012604/). Experienced guard [Martin Hermannsson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/martin-hermannsson/008780/) – out at the moment with an Achilles injury – has provided a steady hand in the backcourt, too. It would be the shock of all shocks to see coach Israel Gonzalez's team turn this around and make a playoff push, but regardless, the fight the players have shown in tricky circumstances is something the ALBA faithful can be proud of. *-- Geoff Gillingham*

The Euroleague.net experts have provided their updated power rankings for the 2024-25 season

Fantasy expert Javier Gancedo has offered his fantasy tips and recommendations ahead of Round 11 of the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge.

Fantasy tips, Round 11: Three turns and unlimited trades

It is a special week in the [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/) for two reasons. First, there is an early game on Wednesday, so there are three turns of games in Round 11. Second, all managers can enjoy unlimited trades before this week's action gets underway. 

For that reason, I am going all-in in my recommendations, with one superstar per turn plus a couple of very good options for less than 9.0 credits. Here they are.

Filip Petrusev, Nigel Hayes-Davis, Matteo Spagnolo, Theo Maledon and Devin Booker are featured in this week's article.

EuroLeague Fantasy tips: Round 11

### Nigel Hayes-Davis, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (15.4 credits)

Along with Sasha Vezenkov and TJ Shorts, [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/) is the biggest fantasy asset in the game right now. Fenerbahce is on a five-game winning streak and Hayes-Davis has been outstanding in that stretch, averaging 22.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and a PIR of 23.2. His lowest PIR over the last five games has been 18, and it looks like he is only getting started.

<center>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCfRyTuo_Jk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCfRyTuo_Jk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCfRyTuo_Jk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Nigel Hayes-Davis (@nigel_hayes)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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### Theo Maledon, LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (14.0 credits)

After a couple of down games, [Theo Maledon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/theo-maledon/007027/) had an outstanding double-round week in which he showed his best level. Across two games in Rounds 9 and 10, Maledon averaged 28.5 points on 7-of-13 three-pointers and 20-of-22 free throws, 5.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 10.0 fouls drawn (!) and a PIR of 36.5. Neal Sako is back, too, so there's plenty of good news for ASVEL.

### Filip Petrusev, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (8.9 credits)

Arguably the man of the moment in the game right now, a must-have player, is [Filip Petrusev](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/filip-petrusev/011194/). He had a fantastic double-round week, getting a PIR of 38 against AS Monaco and a PIR of 19 against ASVEL. He helped on the boards, went to the foul line a lot, and that was reflected in his PIR. My advice? Hold on to him until Joel Bolomboy comes back.

<center>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCUN4lut1mv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCUN4lut1mv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCUN4lut1mv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Turkish Airlines EuroLeague (@euroleague)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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### Matteo Spagnolo, ALBA Berlin (8.8 credits)

There are many reasons to consider Matteo Spagnolo in Round 11. First, ALBA is in a rough injury situation which has forced coach Israel Gonzalez to give certain players extra playing time. Second, it is not just any game for Spagnolo, who was in Real Madrid's academy and now returns to the Spanish capital. In the last two games, he averaged a PIR of 20.5.

### Devin Booker, FC Bayern Munich (13.0 credits)

Bayern has a difficult task when it hosts FC Barcelona, but I believe that [Devin Booker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/devin-booker/007056/) is an ideal fit for this game as he can use his mid-range game against Jan Vesely and Willy Hernangomez. Booker has been great all season, too, getting a PIR of 14 or higher in each of the last seven games. Last week, he averaged 19.0 points and a PIR of 24.5, barely missing shots.

Fantasy expert Javier Gancedo explains how you can take advantage in fantasy this week

FC Barcelona has confirmed that forward Chimezie Metu will be out for the next six to eight weeks due to a sprained knee.

Barcelona loses Chimezie Metu for 6-8 weeks

FC Barcelona will be without power forward [Chimezie Metu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/chimezie-metu/013379/) for at least six weeks due to a sprained knee, the club confirmed Monday. 

Metu suffered the injury during a Spanish League game against Valencia Basket on Sunday while fighting for a rebound. He fell with visible signs of pain. Though Metu was able to stand up and leave the court on his own, he never returned to the game.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ca" dir="ltr">Les proves realitzades han confirmat que el jugador Chimezie Metu ha patit un esquinç de grau 2 del lligament col·lateral intern del genoll esquerre. Seguirà un tractament conservador, amb un temps aproximat de recuperació d’entre 6 i 8 setmanes. <a href="https://t.co/1u92E9MBr6">pic.twitter.com/1u92E9MBr6</a></p>&mdash; Barça Basket (@FCBbasket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBbasket/status/1858467790581059874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Further exams confirmed that Metu has a second-degree sprained left knee and it was decided that he will follow conservative treatment, which will sideline him for all the remaining games in 2024. 

Metu has played a key role for Barcelona this season, averaging 7.9 points and 4.4 rebounds in less than 19 minutes per game in his first Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season. 

More Barcelona News

The power forward is playing his first EuroLeague season

Round 11 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague is headlined by the unmatchable intensity of the Belgrade derby, while the reigning champ faces a tough challenge on the road. Here’s your overview of all the action.

At a glance: The Belgrade derby highlights this week’s action

Round 11 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague is headlined by the unmatchable intensity of the Belgrade derby, while the reigning champ faces a tough challenge on the road. Here’s your overview of all the action.

## Wednesday, November 20

### Virtus Segafredo Bologna vs. Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (20:30 CET)

The week’s action starts early with a Wednesday tipoff between lowly Virtus (2-8) and sole league leader Fenerbahce (8-2), which is looking to preserve the competition’s only perfect road record. A battle between top-class forwards will see [Will Clyburn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/will-clyburn/004888/) (18 points and 6 boards against Panathinaikos last week) attempt to outperform [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/), who must be among the league’s leading November MVP candidates after maintaining his great form with a double-double at Zalgiris last week. Fenerbahce’s injury-hit backcourt received a helping hand from [Arturs Zagars](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/arturs-zagars/008104/) in that game, playing a career-high 24 minutes and providing 10 points, and the Latvian will also look to contain the threat of Virtus playmaker [Isaia Cordinier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/isaia-cordinier/009549/), who averages 14 points and 4.6 assists per night.

## Thursday, November 21

### Anadolu Efes Istanbul vs. Paris Basketball (18:30 CET)

Red-hot Paris (7-3) will push for a seventh straight win as it travels to face a dangerous Efes team (6-4) also brimming with confidence after two road wins last week. In addition to somehow slowing down the electrifying [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) (17.7 points and 7.5 assists per game), the Efes defense must also focus on his backcourt partner [Maodo Lo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/maodo-lo/007032/), whose four triples were instrumental in last week’s stunning success at Barcelona. Efes will look for [Darius Thompson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/darius-thompson/011078/) (11.1 points, 5 assists per night) to control the tempo and [Elijah Bryant](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/elijah-bryant/009846/) (13 points per game) to provide penetration. In the paint, league-leading shot blocker [Vincent Poirier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/vincent-poirier/004887/) (1.6 per night) will try to wreak havoc around the baskets, but ever-present [Kevarrius Hayes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kevarrius-hayes/010390/) (4.8 rebounds per game) will make sure he doesn’t have an easy task.

Round 11 Head-to-Head: Thompson vs. Shorts

### AS Monaco vs. LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (19:00 CET)

A French League derby will see Monaco (6-4) seek to jump into the top six against an ASVEL team (3-7) which cannot be taken lightly. The Roca Team showed its good balance between offense and defense to triumph at Baskonia last time out, with 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists from [Alpha Diallo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/alpha-diallo/011226/) typifying the all-round effort. A major highlight will be a backcourt duel between one of the greatest guards the competition has seen, all-time leading scorer [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/), and a young star ascending towards greatness, [Theo Maledon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/theo-maledon/007027/). ASVEL’s 22-year-old was the co-winner of the Round 10 MVP award after draining 26 points in the win against Zvezda, while James is also accelerating towards his best form after scoring 20 and 16 points in last week’s double slate of games.

Round 11 Head-to-Head: Okobo vs. Maledon

### Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade vs. Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (20:00 CET)

Maximum intensity is guaranteed in the Serbian capital as Zvezda (5-5) hosts Partizan (2-8) in the latest installment of the explosive Belgrade derby. Both teams are in need of victory to start climbing the standings, with Partizan particularly desperate to snap a six-game losing streak. Cool-headed experience could be crucial in the fervent atmosphere of Belgrade Arena, and Zvezda has plenty of that with the likes of veteran leaders [Milos Teodosic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/milos-teodosic/jdr/) and [Luka Mitrovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/luka-mitrovic/002553/), while Partizan’s revamped roster will be stepping into a more unknown environment. Visiting youngsters [Mitar Bosnjakovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mitar-bosnjakovic/012167/) and [Aleksej Pokusevski](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/aleksej-pokusevski/008232/) will look to provide the excitement and energy to match Zvezda’s wise old heads, while the visiting team must also provide strong perimeter defense against the hosts’ three-point shooting, which ranks second in the league at 39.8%.

Round 11 Head-to-Head: Dos Santos vs. Jones

### Olympiacos Piraeus vs. Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (20:15 CET)

Free-scoring Olympiacos (7-3) will target a sixth straight victory as it welcomes a Baskonia team (4-6) still searching for consistency. The Reds, after scoring exactly 94 points for three games straight, can expect another strong night from ruthlessly consistent forward [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/), who has scored between 18 and 23 points in each of the last five games. On the other hand, Baskonia’s main scoring threat [Markus Howard](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/markus-howard/011948/) needs to bounce back after failing to score in either of last week’s games, while the Spanish team will hope that big man [Donta Hall](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/donta-hall/011196/) – who had a double-double in the Round 10 loss against Monaco – will produce another heavyweight performance to make life more difficult for Vezenkov and in-form center [Nikola Milutinov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nikola-milutinov/003941/) (10 points and 6.8 rebounds per game).

### EA7 Emporio Armani Milan vs. Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (20:30 CET)

Two teams with aspirations to climb much higher than their current lowly positions meet with Milan (4-6) hosting Maccabi (3-7). Milan’s prospects have improved after winning three of the last four games, with [Nikola Mirotic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nikola-mirotic/000796/) inspiring the most recent triumph by providing 19 points and 9 rebounds at Partizan in Round 10, with the help of playmaker [Nico Mannion](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/niccolo-mannion/011064/) dishing 7 assists. Maccabi’s injury problems have contributed to a run of just one win in six, but [Jaylen Hoard](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jaylen-hoard/006835/) will look to stay hot after scoring 20 points in the narrow defeat to Olympiacos last time out. Maccabi’s league-leading assist provider (8.7 per night) [Tamir Blatt](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/tamir-blatt/011193/) suffered an injury in domestic action this past weekend, so it will be the likes of [Saben Lee](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/saben-lee/013389/) and [Rokas Jokubaitis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/rokas-jokubaitis/007519/) who look to test Mannion and co.

### Real Madrid vs. ALBA Berlin (20:45 CET)

Up-and-down Real (4-6) will look to get back on the winning track as it faces an ALBA team (2-8) determined to display improved defense after allowing 115 points in its Round 10 loss at Bayern. League-leading rebounder [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) (7.9 boards per game) will look to use his physical presence to shackle the more unpredictable skills of ALBA’s entertaining big man [Trevion Williams](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/trevion-williams-/012604/), who posted 18 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals against Bayern. The German team’s leaky defense could be an open door for Real playmaker [Facu Campazzo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/facundo-campazzo/005928/) (13.7 points and 7.2 assists per game). But at the other end, former Real youth team star [Matteo Spagnolo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/matteo-spagnolo/008173/) (23 points at Bayern) will look to show his old club what it is missing.

## Friday, November 22

### Zalgiris Kaunas vs. Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (19:00 CET)

It’s an all-green affair in Kaunas as faltering Zalgiris (6-4) aims to snap a three-game losing streak with a visit from reigning champ Panathinaikos (7-3). The visitors, who will be without coach Ergin Ataman on the sidelines due to the FIBA window, will expect the frontcourt energy and rebounding ability of [Mathias Lessort](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mathias-lessort/003842/) to throw Zalgiris out of its defensive rhythm, while [Kendrick Nunn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kendrick-nunn/012774/) (20 points in the Round 10 victory at Virtus) is among the many potential game-winners available for the Greek giant. For Zalgiris, last week’s loss to Fenerbahce saw signs of [Lonnie Walker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/lonnie-walker-iv/013403/) settling into his new environment as the recent signing netted 19 points, including a trio of three-pointers. Crucially, Walker also snared 4 steals in that encounter and those defensive skills will be crucial against a Panathinaikos team looking to make it six wins out of seven.

Round 11 Head-to-Head: Walker vs. Grant

### FC Bayern Munich vs. FC Barcelona (20:30 CET)

In a must-watch matchup between two of the five teams currently tied for second place, Bayern (7-3) will look to extend its 100% home record against Barcelona (7-3). The Spanish team needs to bounce back from last week’s home loss to Paris, and will hope that young guard [Juan Nunez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/juan-nunez/010106/) and three-point threat [Joel Parra](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/joel-parra/007464/) can stay strong after delivering their best performances of the season in that game. Bayern will look for another free-flowing offensive exhibition which resulted in an outburst of 115 points to destroy ALBA last time out, with [Nick Weiler-Babb](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nick-weiler-babb/010391/) orchestrating (11 assists vs. ALBA) and league-leading scorer [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/) (21.0 points per game) confident enough to shoot from anywhere. Barcelona failed to contain Paris’s backcourt last week, and needs a much more solid defensive effort to prevail in Munich.

Round 11 Head-to-Head: Da Silva vs. Parker

There are nine games are split across three days – one on Wednesday, six on Thursday, and two on Friday

FC Bayern Munich v FC Barcelona (2024-11-22T19:30:00.000Z)

Zalgiris Kaunas v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2024-11-22T18:00:00.000Z)

Anadolu Efes Istanbul v Paris Basketball (2024-11-21T17:30:00.000Z)

Real Madrid v ALBA Berlin (2024-11-21T19:45:00.000Z)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan v Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (2024-11-21T19:30:00.000Z)

Olympiacos Piraeus v Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (2024-11-21T19:15:00.000Z)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2024-11-21T19:00:00.000Z)

AS Monaco v LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (2024-11-21T18:00:00.000Z)

Virtus Segafredo Bologna v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2024-11-20T19:30:00.000Z)

Fenerbahce Beko has leaned on its defense to achieve the EuroLeague's best record through the first 10 games, but they are not the only team shining on defense this season.

Stats review: The importance of defensive details

It was an eventful double-round week in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague as just five teams managed to escape with a pair of victories, setting the margin between second and ninth place in the standings at just a single game heading into Round 11. It is hard to escape just how unforgiving the league landscape is at this point as one week can be the difference between the optimism that comes with a spot near the top of the standings and the worry that comes with being on the edge of the early playoff picture. 

That paints the teams that can rise up above the fray – even if only for a few games – in a different light. [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/) is the only team with a degree of separation at the moment as its five-game winning streak has the Turkish side one game clear at the top of the standings. Ranked 15th in offensive efficiency, its defense has been absolutely crucial to its success to this point.

The table above lists the top eight teams in points per possession allowed this season with some additional details – turnover rate, free throw rate, and Synergy Shot Quality (SSQ) – for reference. Given how difficult it is for teams to differentiate themselves at this level, the details are where things get interesting for Fenerbahce. Forcing turnovers at the lowest rate in the EuroLeague while committing fouls at the second-highest rate, its shot defense has had to be special to propel its record. 

SSQ provides some insight into their recipe for success – it calculates the expected value of any given shot based on a data-driven model that considers all the advanced tracking data from the last decade of attempts in the EuroLeague. Fenerbahce is one of four teams with an SSQ under one point per attempt this season along with [Zalgiris Kaunas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/zalgiris-kaunas/zal/) and [Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/baskonia-vitoria-gasteiz/bas/) – both featured above – and [Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/partizan-mozzart-bet-belgrade/par/), whose uneven start has been based, at least somewhat, on a run of bad luck. 

Fenerbahce and Zalgiris have used a similar formula to limit their opponent’s shot quality this season. One of the main reasons they have been this season’s most efficient defensive units has been their efforts to chase opposing shooters off the three-point line and get to spots early in rotation along the perimeter to contest the shots that do go up. Even if neither team has been overly productive in the passing lanes and will commit some fouls as they scramble to recover around the rim or after switching, the volume of three-point shots they prevent and the quality of their closeouts have set them apart early on. It should come as no surprise, then, that that duo shot a combined 12 for 45 in Fenerbahce’s Round 10 victory at Zalgirio Arena. 

Digging even a layer further, Fenerbahce’s attention to detail coming out of timeouts and diligence finishing plays late in the shot clock have had a noticeable impact on its bottom line defensively. Given the razor-thin margin for error round to round, it takes really good scouting of a set play, true multiple efforts to survive switches, or perfectly timed stunts to force mid-range shots to give a team the upper hand on the scoreboard. Fenerbahce is perhaps the league’s best example of that early on as its work in the details has materialized in the standings. 

Among other superlatives in the details, Zalgiris has been the EuroLeague's top full-court pressing and pick and roll defense, [Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade/red/) has allowed the fewest opportunities in transition, Partizan has allowed the fewest shots around the rim, [Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/mad/) has finished plays on the glass more consistently, and [Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/olympiacos-piraeus/oly/) has forced the highest volume of mid-range jumpers. There’s a level of urgency to keep up with the pack right now that makes all the little things teams do at an elite level defensively feel a bit bigger than usual.

Some teams have leaned on their defense to rise up the standings

Despite missing three key backcourt players, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul downed Zalgiris Kaunas 65-72 to remain undefeated on the road this season. 


Zagars, Guduric rise to the challenge 

Despite missing three key backcourt players, [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul ](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/)[defeated Zalgiris Kaunas 65-72](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-beats-zalgiris-65-72-to-stay-unbeaten-on-the-road/) to remain undefeated on the road this season.

Fenerbahce arrived to Zalgirio Arena with severe backcourt problems. [Scottie Wilbekin was injured at the start of the season](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-confirms-the-worst-scottie-wilbekin-has-torn-his-acl/), the team has been without [Wade Baldwin for some time](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/wade-baldwin-sidelined-with-hamstring-injury/) and [Devon Hall went down last week](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/devon-hall-to-undergo-surgery-on-hand-injury/) and is not expected to return soon. Fenerbahce also lost sharpshooter [Tarik Biberovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tarik-biberovic/006961/) to an ankle injury during the game.

"We are just trying to survive right now. I mean, really, literally. We are not even talking about improving or playing great basketball, honestly," Fenerbahce head coach Sarunas Jasikevicius said after the game. "This is November and I cannot believe I'm speaking like this, but I believe that this is the honest truth."

Luckily for Fenerbahce, two of its healthy guards made the difference on Friday.

Marko Guduric and Arturs Zagars combined for 27 points to lead Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul to its fifth consecutive victory.

Guduric, Zagars lead Fenerbahce past Zalgiris

Many Latvian fans traveled to Kaunas to see playmaker [Arturs Zagars](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/arturs-zagars/008104/) in person. Zagars became a basketball icon in his country when he led the Latvian national team to a fifth-place finish at the 2023 Basketball World Cup with averages of 12.4 points and 7.4 assists. He then joined Fenerbahce, [was loaned out](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul-signs-arturs-zagars-will-join-bc-wolves-on-loan/) to [Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/wolves-vilnius/roster/wol/?season=2023-24) and [suffered a serious knee injury](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/wolves-zagars-to-miss-season-after-knee-injury/) in October 2023. Zagars returned to Fenerbahce this season and is now finding his rhythm.

Against Zalgiris, Zagars hit the game-clinching free throws and finished the game with 10 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 5 fouls drawn for a PIR of 9.

[Marko Guduric](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/marko-guduric/004004/) also stepped up with extended playing time due to his team's backcourt situation. In almost 30 minutes, Guduric had a season-high 17 points on 7-of-7 free-throw shooting, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 5 fouls drawn. 

Zagars and Guduric were relied on heavily as fellow guard [Skylar Mays](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/skylar-mays/013396/) only played 6 minutes and team captain [Melih Mahmutoglu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/melih-mahmutoglu/002969/) just 20 seconds.

Game Videos

"It's not easy. I mean, now we have, what, three guards \[available\]? Only now, Tarik \[Biberovic\] is hurt. Let's see, let's follow his situation," Guduric said after the game. "We all tried to help, Nigel \[[Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/)\] bringing the ball up, Nicolo \[[Melli](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolo-melli/002849/)\], DyShawn \[[Pierre](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/dyshawn-pierre/010560/)\] stepped up today, so it was a team effort. A great team effort."

Zagars now faces another challenge: going against his national team coach Luca Banchi when Fenerbahce visits Virtus Segafredo Bologna in Round 11 on November 20.

Game News

Fenerbahce was able to shake off the absences of several key players in Kaunas to claim another valuable win


Zagars, Guduric rose to the challenge for Fenerbahce

Zalgiris Kaunas v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2024-11-15T18:00:00.000Z)