Anadolu Efes didn't get off to the best of starts on Friday evening against Virtus Bologna. After halftime, though, it was a different story as Vincent Poirier spearheaded a second-half comeback that saw Efes lock in defensively.

Vincent Poirier shined as Efes’s second-half defense overwhelmed Virtus

[Anadolu Efes Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/anadolu-efes-istanbul/ist/) didn't get off to the best of starts [on Friday evening against Virtus Segafredo Bologna](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/efes-beats-virtus-89-68-for-fourth-straight-home-win/). After halftime, though, it was a different story as [Vincent Poirier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/vincent-poirier/004887/) spearheaded a second-half comeback that saw Efes lock in defensively.

Virtus were the better team before the break, taking a 39-42 lead into the third quarter. That’s precisely when Poirier stepped up, helping Efes to pack the paint as it looked to tighten up its defense.

Poirier set the tone on both ends, recording 9 points, 4 rebounds, 1 block and 1 steal in the third quarter as the hosts held Virtus to just 10 points, with Efes taking a 61-52 advantage into the closing period.

“I think that we got some interceptions in the second half,” Poirier told EuroLeague TV after the game. “We packed the defense and everything was harder for them. That’s the way we need to play, especially at home. It’s our home court. We need to defend and \[allow\] no easy layup.”

Poirier dominated inside and finished the game with 18 points and a season-high 13 rebounds, 7 of which came on the offensive end to provide Efes with important extra possessions.

“I knew that I had to step on the court and dominate tonight,” he added. “Every game is like a final for us and I hope we’re going to continue like that.”

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">👊 “It’s time to take big win on the road!”<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhereIStand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhereIStand</a> <a href="https://t.co/cQmeJo1ScG">pic.twitter.com/cQmeJo1ScG</a></p>&mdash; Anadolu Efes SK (@AnadoluEfesSK) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnadoluEfesSK/status/1898108494798069930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Having recorded an 89-68 triumph to notch its fourth straight win at home, Efes will now look to grab its first road victory in 10 games.

“It’s time for us to go on the road and get some wins if we want to have some ambitions,” coach Luca Banchi stressed in the postgame press conference.

To do so, the Turkish side will need to down an FC Bayern Munich side boasting extraordinary offensive firepower. Hence, defense will once again be key next week at SAP Garden, where Efes will need to emulate Friday’s defensive outing as it looks to escape with an important victory that would allow it to remain in playoff conversation.

Game News

The Efes center recorded a double-double for the hosts

Anadolu Efes Istanbul v Virtus Segafredo Bologna (2025-03-07T17:30:00.000Z)

Anadolu Efes extended its winning streak at home to four games by defeating Virtus Bologna 89-68 on Friday evening, with this win improving Efes to 14-14 while Virtus dropped to 7-21. 

Efes beats Virtus, 89-68, for fourth straight home win

Anadolu Efes Istanbul extended its winning streak at home to four games by defeating Virtus Segafredo Bologna 89-68 on Friday evening. The visitors were superior before the break and took a 39-42 lead into the second half, but Efes tightened up its defense and outscored Virtus 22-10 in the third quarter to turn the game around. This win allowed Efes to improve its record to 14-14, while Virtus suffered its sixth consecutive loss and dropped to 7-21. 

Elijah Bryant led all scorers with 21 points and Vincent Poirier bagged an 18-point, 13-rebound double-double. Shane Larkin scored 12 points and Rolands Smits added 11. Toko Shengelia paced Virtus with 17 points and Matt Morgan netted 11.

Game Videos

Bryant opened the scoring from deep, but five points from Shengelia and a layup by Daniel Hackett in transition gave Virtus a 5-7 lead. Then, Bryant took his tally to an early 10 points to put Efes back in front, 17-12. Larkin netted one from downtown, but Alessandro Pajola responded with two straight triples and Morgan went 2 of 2 from the line to tie it up at 24-24 after 10 minutes.

Virtus started the second quarter with a 2-11 run inspired by Pajola and Justin Holiday. Darius Thompson answered with a three-point play before a triple from Smits and a tip-in by Poirier slashed the deficit to 34-38. Back-to-back baskets from Shengelia were followed by a buzzer-beating triple from Bryant, who brought Efes within 39-42 at halftime.

Bryant and Larkin drilled one each from beyond the arc and Poirier scored inside to put Efes ahead, 49-48. The Efes center added another 5 points to his tally and PJ Dozier sank a triple that gave the hosts a 61-52 cushion heading into the final quarter.

Dozier opened the fourth with another three, but Daniel Hackett, Momo Diouf and Nicola Akele scored inside to cut the difference to 66-58. Yet, Larkin nailed a signature off-balance triple and Bryant scored one of his own to open a 76-62 lead, which practically put the game to bed. 

The hosts tightened up their defense after the break to seal the victory

### Friday, March 7, 2025

#### [Anadolu Efes Istanbul 89-68 Virtus Segafredo Bologna](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/anadolu-efes-istanbul-virtus-segafredo-bologna/E2024/249/)

Efes extended its winning streak at home to four games by defeating Virtus 89-68 on Friday evening. The visitors were superior before the break and took a 39-42 lead into the second half, but Efes tightened up its defense and outscored Virtus 22-10 in the third quarter to turn the game around. This win allowed Efes to improve its record to 14-14, while Virtus suffered its sixth consecutive loss and dropped to 7-21. Elijah Bryant led all scorers with 21 points and Vincent Poirier bagged an 18-point, 13-rebound double-double. Shane Larkin scored 12 points and Rolands Smits added 11. Toko Shengelia paced Virtus with 17 points and Matt Morgan netted 11.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">👊 BGM’de kazanmaya devam ediyoruz!<br>Anadolu Efes 89 - 68 Virtus Segafredo Bologna | Maç Sonucu<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/E%C5%9FitlikBirG%C3%BCneS%C4%B1%C4%9Fmaz?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EşitlikBirGüneSığmaz</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BenimYerimBuras%C4%B1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BenimYerimBurası</a> <a href="https://t.co/xtIx7Ykowc">pic.twitter.com/xtIx7Ykowc</a></p>&mdash; Anadolu Efes SK (@AnadoluEfesSK) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnadoluEfesSK/status/1898091621729624234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

#### [LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne 95-102 Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne-maccabi-playtika-tel-aviv/E2024/250/)

Maccabi defeated ASVEL 95-102 at LDLC Arena on Friday night to clinch its eighth in a row against the French powerhouse. The visitors escaped 24-35 early in the second period and led for most of the second half, but they needed to overcome an ASVEL rally in the fourth period as the hosts made it 81-80 with eight minutes remaining. A good reaction led by Jimmy Clark, Marial Shayok and Jasiel Rivero reanimated the guests and allowed them to close out the game and improve to 8-20. ASVEL fell to 11-17 after collecting its fifth defeat in a row. Levi Randolph led six Maccabi players in double figures with 19 points. Roman Sorkin, Clark, Rivero and Shayok scored 15 apiece, while Trevion Williams poured in 13. Nando de Colo paced ASVEL with 20 points and 8 assists, Melvin Ajinca had 14 points, Paris Lee added 12, and Joffrey Lauvergne and Neal Sako chipped in 10, with the latter also grabbing 11 rebounds for a double-double.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="fr" dir="ltr">𝐁𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐎𝐈𝐑! <a href="https://t.co/0oepuWpR7J">pic.twitter.com/0oepuWpR7J</a></p>&mdash; Maccabi Tel Aviv BC 🇮🇱​ (@MaccabiTLVBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaccabiTLVBC/status/1898117073974284308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

#### [Olympiacos Piraeus 82-70 Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/olympiacos-piraeus-partizan-mozzart-bet-belgrade/E2024/251/)

Olympiacos stayed firmly in the driver’s seat of the EuroLeague standings and improved to 21-7 in the regular season after cruising to an 82-70 home win over Partizan, the club’s 12th in the last 13 games in Europe’s premier club competition. Having already secured a postseason berth with seven games to spare after some results went its way on Thursday evening, Olympiacos made light of the matchup with Partizan as the Greek giant led from start to finish in a lop-sided contest. Sasha Vezenkov paced Olympiacos with 17 points and 6 boards but it was Partizan’s former center Nikola Milutinov who claimed the player of the game accolade after racking up 10 points and 9 boards, while Nigel Williams-Goss posted 10 points and 4 assists. At the other end, Carlik Jones led Partizan on 17 points, Brandon Davies added 14 and captain Vanja Marinkovic chipped in with 12, but Partizan never looked capable of staging an upset as the visitors were devoid of energy and bereft of ideas on offense.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">FINAL 🏀 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OlympiacosBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OlympiacosBC</a> - Partizan 82-70 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EveryGameMatters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EveryGameMatters</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreOlympiacos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreOlympiacos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherWeFight?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherWeFight</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OLYPAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OLYPAR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympiacos100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympiacos100</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100xronia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100xronia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thrylos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thrylos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Legend?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Legend</a> <a href="https://t.co/jt5KklVoSp">pic.twitter.com/jt5KklVoSp</a></p>&mdash; Olympiacos B.C. (@Olympiacos_BC) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympiacos_BC/status/1898118521038475304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

#### [ALBA Berlin 85-99 FC Barcelona](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/alba-berlin-fc-barcelona/E2024/252/)

Barcelona returned to winning ways by downing ALBA 85-99 at Uber Arena in the German capital in Round 28 on Friday. Barca improved to 15-13 in the standings while ALBA dropped to 4-24. Jabari Parker paced the winners with 21 points. Willy Hernangomez added 15, Youssoupha Fall and Dario Brizuela each had 13, Chimezie Metu got 11 while Tomas Satoransky dished a career-high 12 assists for Barca. Yanni Wetzell led ALBA with 15 points. Matt Thomas added 12 while David McCormack had 11 for the hosts.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ca" dir="ltr">VICTÒRIA IMPORTANTÍSSIMA 👊 <a href="https://t.co/cxEibiwuYm">pic.twitter.com/cxEibiwuYm</a></p>&mdash; Barça Basket (@FCBbasket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBbasket/status/1898121900615729558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### Thursday, March 6, 2025

#### [FC Bayern Munich 100-82 Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/fc-bayern-munich-crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade/E2024/248/)

Bayern improved to 17-11 and stayed firmly on course to reach the postseason after bouncing back from a sluggish start to steamroll Crvena Zvezda at SAP Arena. Carsen Edwards paced Bayern with a game-high 30 points, while veteran Vladimir Lucic racked up 18 and 7 boards. Bayern also tied the biggest run in EuroLeague history after conjuring a 25-0 streak late in the second quarter and early in the third, effectively sealing the matchup after stretching its lead from 39-37 to 64-37. Joel Bolomboy was a lone beacon of light for Zvezda as he racked up 12 points and 19 boards.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great team effort, big W! 😤 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAYCZV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAYCZV</a></p>&mdash; FC Bayern Basketball (@FCBBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBBasketball/status/1897765179271922106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

#### [EA7 Emporio Armani Milan 76-100 Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/ea7-emporio-armani-milan-fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/E2024/247/)

Fenerbahce registered its second straight road victory this week by thrashing  Milan at Unipol Forum. The visitors outscored Milan in each of the four quarters and led for the majority of the game, with their defense being solid throughout the contest. With this win, Fenerbahce improved its record to 19-9 in its bid to secure postseason home-court advantage through a top-four spot. Milan dropped to 15-13, but remains in the playoff conversation. Errick McCollum led all scorers with 18 points for the winners. For Milan, Shavon Shields netted 17 points.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">EuroLeague&#39;de haftayı 2️⃣&#39;de 2️⃣ ile tamamlıyoruz! 💪<br><br>Tebrikler Fenerbahçe Beko! 👏<br><br>Maç Sonucu | Olimpia Milano 🆚 Fenerbahçe Beko: 76-100<br><br>Skor dağılımımız: McCollum 18, Hayes-Davis 14, Baldwin 15, Hall 10, Colson 8, Biberovic 8, Bango 8, Melli 6, Sertaç 5, Birch 4, Guduric 4.… <a href="https://t.co/Q93gG9CnDC">pic.twitter.com/Q93gG9CnDC</a></p>&mdash; Fenerbahçe Beko (@FBBasketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBBasketbol/status/1897760277791490093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

#### [Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz 66-65 Zalgiris Kaunas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/baskonia-vitoria-gasteiz-zalgiris-kaunas/E2024/246/)

Baskonia gave its play-in hopes a major boost by defeating Zalgiris 66-65 in a hard-fought clash at Buesa Arena. Donta Hall was Baskonia’s star performer with 11 points and 8 rebounds, as well as 3 blocks, while Markus Howard and Chima Moneke both chipped in with 13 points apiece. Zalgiris’s Ignas Brazdeikis netted 17 points and Alen Smailagic added 11 points. Baskonia outscored Zalgiris in each of the first two quarters, taking a 38-30 lead into halftime, and that eight-point advantage proved crucial as the visitors held the hosts to just 28 second-half points. Still, Zalgiris’s hopes of a comeback win were spurned when Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot moved to 7 points by scoring a turnaround mid-range jump shot with 21 seconds left to restore Baskonia's lead for a final score of 66-65.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">¡Volvemos a sumar en <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EuroLeague</a> !<br><br>¡Volvemos a sumar una más junto a vosotros! 🔥🔥<br><br>Ya tenemos la número 1⃣2⃣ 💪💪 <a href="https://t.co/QUDUG9H03H">pic.twitter.com/QUDUG9H03H</a></p>&mdash; Baskonia (@Baskonia) <a href="https://twitter.com/Baskonia/status/1897762408296313036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

#### [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens 85-70 Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/panathinaikos-aktor-athens-real-madrid/E2024/245/)

Reigning champion Panathinaikos enjoyed another triumph over last season’s beaten finalist Real Madrid, taking a comfortable victory in Athens. The Greens improved to 18-10 to strengthen their top four position, while Real dropped to 14-14. The Greens dominated early to take a double-digit lead in the first quarter, and stayed ahead the rest of the way despite Real’s attempts to hang in the game. Kendrick Nunn led the scoring with 18 points, while Jerian Grant combined 11 points with 9 assists. Real was led by Mario Hezonja with 18 points.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Big <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RivalrySeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RivalrySeries</a> win for the Greens! <a href="https://t.co/dmHHLhnFBI">pic.twitter.com/dmHHLhnFBI</a></p>&mdash; Turkish Airlines EuroLeague (@EuroLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroLeague/status/1897761985913053287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### Wednesday, March 5, 2025

#### [Paris Basketball 79-91 AS Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2024-25/paris-basketball-as-monaco/E2024/244/)

Monaco came out victorious from the all-French League encounter by thrashing Paris on Wednesday night at Adidas Arena. The visitors led for most of the game, outscoring the hosts 14-27 in the third quarter to establish a double-digit cushion that they maintained until the final whistle. Monaco improved its record to 17-11 and claimed the head-to-head advantage in the race for top-four spot. Paris dropped to 16-12 after recording its second straight home loss this week. Jordan Loyd and Daniel Theis bagged 21 points each to lead all scorers. TJ Shorts paced Paris with 19 points.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="fr" dir="ltr">💢 La <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RocaTeam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RocaTeam</a> impose sa loi à Paris avec une victoire autoritaire ! 😤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DagheMunegu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DagheMunegu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EveryGameMatters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EveryGameMatters</a> <a href="https://t.co/EZJ2VN6kJm">pic.twitter.com/EZJ2VN6kJm</a></p>&mdash; AS Monaco Basket 🇲🇨 (@ASMonaco_Basket) <a href="https://twitter.com/ASMonaco_Basket/status/1897400478427963726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Thursday's results ensured that Olympiacos became the first team this season to clinch a postseason berth

Game Center: Efes, Olympiacos triumph at home; Maccabi, Barça win on the road

Paris Basketball v AS Monaco (2025-03-05T19:30:00.000Z)

Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens v Real Madrid (2025-03-06T19:45:00.000Z)

Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz v Zalgiris Kaunas (2025-03-06T19:30:00.000Z)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2025-03-06T19:30:00.000Z)

FC Bayern Munich v Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (2025-03-06T19:30:00.000Z)

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne v Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (2025-03-07T19:00:00.000Z)

Olympiacos Piraeus v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2025-03-07T19:15:00.000Z)

ALBA Berlin v FC Barcelona (2025-03-07T19:30:00.000Z)

All the latest injury news surrounding all registered players in the 2024-25 EuroLeague season.

EuroLeague injury report: Round 28

Follow all the latest injury information for registered players in the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season, as reported by the clubs, and get your [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/home?_ga=2.101462721.1199459303.1696273873-903329349.1669636775) teams up to date!

### ALBA Berlin

ALBA has full roster available for its game against FC Barcelona on Friday.

- [New signing Robert Baker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/alba-berlin-registers-robert-baker-before-deadline/) has been registered but is yet to make his EuroLeague debut.
- Malte Delow did not play in Round 27, but returned to action in the German League over the weekend.
- [Justin Bean](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/justin-bean-out-three-months-with-broken-wrist/) returned to action in Round 27 after being out since early November after breaking his wrist.

### Anadolu Efes Istanbul

Rodrigue Beaubois is the only players listed as questionable for Efes's game against Virtus on Friday.

- Ridvan Oncel was not available in Round 27.

### AS Monaco

Monaco has not yet sent an injury report for its game at Paris on Wednesday.

- Nick Calathes missed Round 27, and will remain sidelined in Paris, according to the club website.
- [New signing Daniel Theis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/daniel-theis-returns-to-the-euroleague-with-as-monaco/) has made his Monaco debut in Round 27.
- Vitto Brown has last played in Round 22, but is back at practices according to the club website.

### Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz

Baskonia has not yet sent an injury report for its game against Zalgiris on Thursday.

- Kamar Baldwin missed Round 27 after suffering a foot injury while on international duty.
- Ousmane Ndiaye has been loaned out to Granada, [the club confirmed on February 27](https://x.com/Baskonia/status/1895050149593764178).

### Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade

Crvena Zvezda has listed Filip Petrusev and Luka Mitrovic as doubtful for its game at Bayern on Thursday.

- Filip Petrusev (illness) is doubtful for the game in Munich, but he travelled with the team.
- Milos Teodosic last played in Round 23, but has practiced the last two days, according to coach Sfairopoulos.
- Luka Mitrovic did not play in Round 27, and id doubtful due to a knee injury, but has travelled with the team to Munich.
- Branko Lazic last played in Round 15, but has recovered from injury.
- Mike Daum, who last played in Round 18, has undergone knee surgery, the club confirmed on January 9.

### EA7 Emporio Armani Milan

Josh Nebo remains out, while Shavon Shields, Neno Dimitrijevic and Leandro Bolmaro are all listed as game time decision for Milan's game against Fenerbahce on Thursday.

- [Nikola Mirotic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/leg-injury-sidelines-milans-nikola-mirotic/) and Fabien Causeur have both returned to action in Round 27.
- Leandro Bolmaro missed Round 27 due to a shoulder injury.
- [Josh Nebo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/josh-nebo-to-be-reevaluated-in-3-4-weeks/) suffered another injury in Round 17 and is expected to miss extended time, according to coach Ettore Messina.

### FC Barcelona

Barcelona will be again without Kevin Punter, Juan Nunez, Jan Vesely and Nico Laprovittola in its game at ALBA on Friday.

- [Juan Nunez is dealing with a knee injury](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/juan-nunez-suffering-with-knee-injury-out-for-el-clasico/), the club confirmed on February 26.
- [Kevin Punter suffered a shoulder injury](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/barcas-punter-sidelined-by-shoulder-injury/) during the Spanish Cup, with the swingman expected to be out until early March.
- [Jan Vesely is expected to be sidelined for 8-10 weeks](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/barcelona-jan-vesely-out-8-10-weeks/) due to a knee injury, the club announced in early February.
- [Nico Laprovittola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/nico-laprovittola-to-undergo-knee-surgery/) was ruled out for the season due to an ACL and meniscus injury.

### FC Bayern Munich

Bayern has not yet sent an injury report for its game against Crvena Zvezda on Thursday.

- Devin Booker last played in Round 24.

### Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul

Fenerbahce will have everybody Scottie Wilbekin available for its game at Milan on Thursday.

- [Scottie Wilbekin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-confirms-the-worst-scottie-wilbekin-has-torn-his-acl/) tore his ACL in Round 1 and is out long term.

### LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne

ASVEL has not yet sent an injury report for its game against Maccabi on Friday.

- Joffrey Lauvergne has not played in Round 27, but returned to action in the French League over the weekend.
- [Charles Kahudi](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/charles-kahudi-out-for-four-weeks-with-groin-injury/) last played in Round 14.
- [Mbaye Ndiaye ](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/mbaye-ndiaye-ldlc-asvel-out-for-several-months-with-knee-injury/)has ruptured the cruciate ligaments in his right knee and is likely out for the season.

### Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv

Maccabi has not yet sent an injury report for its game at ASVEL on Friday.

- Rokas Jokubaitis, Tamir Blatt and Rafi Menco all missed Round 27.
- Jaylen Hoard has been out with a hamstring injury since the club announced it on January 29.

### Olympiacos Piraeus

Thomas Walkup, Keenan Evans and Moses Wright are ruled out for Olympiacos's game against Partizan on Friday, the club has confirmed.

- [New signing Saben Lee](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/olympiacos-pens-deal-with-saben-lee/) has been registered, but is yet to make his Olympiacos debut.
- Keenan Evans has been registered. He has not played this season after undergoing knee surgery last May.
- Thomas Walkup (back) last played in Round 20.
- [Moses Wright](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/moses-wright-out-for-the-season-with-health-issue/) is out for the season with a health issue.

### Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens

Panathinaikos has not yet sent an injury report for its game against Real Madrid on Thursday.

- [New signing Tibor Pleiss](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/tibor-pleiss-reunites-with-coach-ataman-at-panathinaikos/) has made his Panathinaikos debut in Round 27.
- [Omer Yurtseven](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/panathinaikos-loses-center-yurtseven/) suffered a leg injury on January 20, which will sideline him for six to eight weeks.
- [Mathias Lessort](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/all-euroleague-center-mathias-lessort-leaves-game-with-leg-injury/) suffered a broken fibula in Round 17 and will miss several months.
- Marius Grigonis (lower back surgery) has not played since Round 4.

### Paris Basketball

Paris has not yet sent an injury report for its game against Monaco on Friday.

- Collin Malcolm has missed the last two Paris games, including the one against Fenerbahce on Monday.

### Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade

Partizan will be without Isaac Bonga and Frank Ntilikina in the game at Olympiacos on Friday.

- Isaac Bonga missed Round 27 with a hand injury suffered while playing for the German national team.
- Vanja Marinkovic returned to action in Round 27 after missing 10 games due to an Achilles injury.
- Frank Ntilikina, who last played in Round 20, has returned to team practices after injury.
- Mitar Bosnjakovic, who last played in Round 16, returned from injury but did not travel with the team.

### Real Madrid

Real Madrid has not yet sent an injury report for its game at Panathinaikos on Thursday.

- [Gaby Deck](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/real-madrid-loses-gabriel-deck-to-torn-hamstring/) last played in Round 18 after tearing his hamstring.

### Virtus Segafredo Bologna

Virtus has listed Will Clyburn as the only player out for its game at Efes on Friday.

- Tornike Shengelia and Achille Polonara were late scratches in Round 27, but Shengelia was already back in action over the weekend in the Italian League.
- Ante Zizic, who missed seven games, returned to action in Round 27.
- [Will Clyburn is out until mid-March](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/will-clyburn-virtus-bologna-out-at-least-10-weeks-with-foot-injury/) due to a foot injury.

### Zalgiris Kaunas

Zalgiris has not yet sent an injury report for its game at Baskonia on Thursday.

- Lukas Lekavicius missed Round 27 with a groin injury.
- [New signing Isaiah Wong](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/zalgiris-adds-scoring-punch-with-isaiah-wong/) has been registered but is yet to make his EuroLeague debut.
- Dovydas Giedraitis returned to action in Round 27 after missing three games due to a knee injury.

Stay up to date with the latest information provided by the EuroLeague clubs

Injury report, Round 28: Beaubois questionable; Bonga, Ntilikina, Walkup all out

The Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz family is celebrating its 25th anniversary at the pinnacle of European basketball. The club organized a special event attended by Euroleague Basketball President Dejan Bodiroga, commemorating the fact that Baskonia is one of just four teams that have played in every season of Europe's premier basketball competition.

Baskonia celebrates its 25th EuroLeague anniversary

The [Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/baskonia-vitoria-gasteiz/bas/) family is celebrating its 25th anniversary at the pinnacle of European basketball. The club organized a special event attended by Euroleague Basketball President Dejan Bodiroga, commemorating the fact that Baskonia is one of just four teams that have played in every season of Europe's premier basketball competition.

One of the event's main highlights was the premiere of a documentary featuring Josean Querejeta, Alfredo Salazar, and Felix Fernandez, reflecting on these 25 years at the top level. Additionally, a roundtable discussion featuring [Pablo Laso](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/baskonia-vitoria-gasteiz/bas/laso-pablo/?season=E2024), [Luis Scola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/luis-scola/ajg/), [Igor Rakocevic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/igor-rakocevic/anb/), and the aforementioned Dejan Bodiroga provided an opportunity to highlight the significance of this silver anniversary and relive some of the most thrilling moments in EuroLeague history.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">💥 ¡Ya está aquí!<br><br>Disfruta del documental exclusivo &quot;25 años en la élite&quot; 🌍✨ <br><br>🎬 Sigue el estreno en directo <a href="https://t.co/fFzLzN2fP2">https://t.co/fFzLzN2fP2</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/25A%C3%B1osEnLa%C3%89lite?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#25AñosEnLaÉlite</a> <a href="https://t.co/LPGhtRdS6t">pic.twitter.com/LPGhtRdS6t</a></p>&mdash; Baskonia (@Baskonia) <a href="https://twitter.com/Baskonia/status/1898024841133117589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></center>

"I want to take advantage of this opportunity to congratulate Josean, Felix and his team for the great work they have done over the years. Baskonia became a big club not just in Spain but beyond the Spanish borders due to its intuition and its way to do things differently," Bodiroga said. "Baskonia always had a clear identity, as well as clear and special ideas, and this is something you could also see on the court."

The entire Baskonia squad, led by [Tadas Sedekerskis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tadas-sedekerskis/007230/) and [Markus Howard](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/markus-howard/011948/), who also appear in the documentary, was present at the event. More than 200 people, including fans, institutions, sponsors, media representatives, and basketball personalities, gathered to experience this special day in the history of the Vitoria-Gasteiz club.

Baskonia, alongside FC Barcelona, Olympiacos, and Zalgiris, is one of the four clubs that can proudly claim to have competed in all 25 EuroLeague seasons to date. The city of Vitoria-Gasteiz and the entire Basque Country have enjoyed unforgettable moments with their team and will continue to do so in the years to come, witnessing Europe's best teams at Buesa Arena.

The blue and red club experiences an emotional day in its history, surrounded by its fans and legendary figures such as Luis Scola and Igor Rakocevic.

After the incredible success in Bologna, where the event garnered over 12 million social media impressions and a record-breaking TikTok LIVE engagement surpassing half a million, Hoop District, the thrilling 3x3 content creators’ tournament presented by Turkish Airlines, is back and ready to take over Athens now! This time, the event will take place on March 15th at Pireos 260, Athens, from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM, 

Hoop District Hits Athens!

- **Register [here](https://euroleague.tbits.me/tb_app/518045) for a Day of Basketball, Entertainment and Unforgettable Experiences!**

After the incredible success in Bologna, where the event garnered over 12 million social media impressions and a record-breaking TikTok LIVE engagement surpassing half a million, Hoop District, the thrilling 3x3 content creators’ tournament presented by Turkish Airlines, is back and ready to take over Athens now!

This time, the event will take place on **March 15th** at [**Pireos 260**](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NJyjDj3ADmNw7tdB6), Athens, from **4:00 PM to 9:30 PM,** as an open-door event with free entry under registration. Same as in Bologna,  this second qualifier of the competition will feature four dynamic teams, each aiming for one of the final two spots in the upcoming showdown in Barcelona, where they’ll go head-to-head with the reigning champions, Team Barcelona led by its captain [Tresco](https://www.instagram.com/tresco_ball/).

Athens, Istanbul, Berlin, and Paris, will be the cities represented with a team, each bringing their own unique flair to the court. Content creators from each city will be leading them, with Greece’s own [George](https://www.instagram.com/george_lntz/) taking charge, [Alper](https://www.instagram.com/alperbicen24/) representing Team Istanbul, [Zac](https://www.instagram.com/zacxcviii/) supporting Team Munich, and [Antoine](https://www.instagram.com/totochegang/) leading Team Paris. These creators will not only compete but also engage with their fanbases, creating exciting content throughout the event.

### Entertainment and more

Hoop District is taking things up a notch with exciting new partnerships, bringing fans a jam-packed experience full of music, basketball challenges, and more. Turkish Airlines is stepping in as the event’s naming sponsor, while the VIP Lounge will host exclusive guests, creating a buzz throughout the day.

Motorola will also present an exhilarating on-court challenge, and adidas will team up with Slam Dunk to showcase their latest gear. Fans will have the chance to show off their skills in a high-energy three-point shooting contest! And to keep the vibe electric, a live performance by a local artist will keep the energy soaring, pumping up both fans and players as the action intensifies.

In addition, the EuroLeague 25th Anniversary stand, presented by BKT, will offer fans a chance to relive iconic moments in basketball history, snap a photo with the EuroLeague trophy, get up close to some of the greatest pieces of basketball memorabilia, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind basketball experience.

Interactive fun continues with Panini’s activations on-site, providing fans with even more ways to get involved.

From music to basketball challenges, and beyond! Basketball stars and special local guests will join the action, with [Dimitris](https://www.instagram.com/dimitris_dk_kyrsanidis/), Motorola Ambassador, also in attendance to engage with attendees and create exciting content throughout the day.

### A Limited-Seat, Open-Door Event

As with the Bologna event, Hoop District in Athens will be **free** and open to the public, with limited seats available for those who want to be part of the action. So make sure to secure your spot by registering in advance [here](https://euroleague.tbits.me/tb_app/518045)!

### TikTok LIVE Show

Once again and after the proven success experienced by those who couldn’t attend in Bologna, the event will once again partner with TikTok, bringing [live coverage of the final game and a celebratory moment on court](https://www.tiktok.com/@euroleague?lang=es). Fans tuning in online will be able to experience the excitement and energy of the event from wherever they are.

Don’t miss out on what’s sure to be an unforgettable day of basketball, content, and community. [**Join us in Athens**](https://euroleague.tbits.me/tb_app/518045) **on March 15 and get ready for Hoop District to take over!**

More info [here](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/hoop-district/) #HoopDistrict

Are you ready for FUN and Basketball? | Hoop District Athens

The exciting 3x3 basketball event moves to Greece on March 15th

After being chosen as the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague MVP for February, Kendrick Nunn of Panathinaikos BC sat down for an exclusive interview with Javier Gancedo of Euroleague.net to discuss a number of topics.

Kendrick Nunn, February MVP interview: 'It reminds me of Michael Jordan-type vibes'

After being chosen as the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague MVP for February, [Kendrick Nunn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kendrick-nunn/012774/) of [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/panathinaikos-aktor-athens/pan/) sat down for an exclusive interview with Javier Gancedo of Euroleague.net to discuss a number of topics.

Nunn talked about the tight MVP race this season, thoughts on fellow EuroLeague star [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/), the possibility of a one-on-one showdown against [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/), the unconditional love he gets from Panathinaikos fans, and much more.

Don't miss this exclusive interview with Nunn as the 2024-25 EuroLeague regular season gets closer and closer to a thrilling finish!

The Panathinaikos guard sat down with Euroleague.net’s Javier Gancedo for an exclusive interview

Pregame quotes hub: 'Victory would be a big step forward'

## Friday, March 7, 2025

### Anadolu Efes Istanbul vs. Virtus Segafredo Bologna (18:30 CET)

**Luca Banchi, Anadolu Efes Istanbul head coach**

"The game against Virtus Segafredo Bologna will represent a tough obstacle for us because of their qualities. They will be in Istanbul in their best version after they recover two very important players like Tornike Shengelia and Ante Zizic, how they proved in a last important home win against the EA7 Emporio Armani Milan in the Italian League. We are preparing seriously for a game which hides many dangers. And that's why I really hope that we are capable to approach with proper consistency and aggressiveness."

**Derek Willis, Anadolu Efes Istanbul forward**

"Virtus Segafredo Bologna game will be a great challenge for us. As a team we will need to focus on defending them in transition and work for the best opportunities on offense. They will be prepared to fight and we must bring the right attitude if we intend to win and want to make play-in."

**Dusko Ivanovic, Virtus Segafredo Bologna head coach**

"I hope that tomorrow's match can help us improve and give minutes to those players who normally do not play as much. However, as in every game, our target always remains to try to win."

**Ante Zizic, Virtus Segafredo Bologna center**

"We will approach the match knowing that we will be facing a talented team that wants to play for the postseason until the end. We will have to play our basketball, trying to improve, regardless of the opponent."

### LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne vs. Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (20:00 CET)

**Oded Kattash, Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv head coach**

"It's going to be another tough game in the EuroLeague. We're playing against a good team that plays with a clear system. They have their way to play with two dominant scorers. We need to control them, we need to box out, and put special attention as a team on \[Nando\] De Colo and \[Theo\] Maledon."

**Will Rayman, Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv forward**

"I kind of said this a couple of weeks ago, but every game is going to have its own identity. They're aggressive, they're having a better season this year than last year, and they have some really good players. We're going to prepare the same way we've prepared for all the other games: we're going to play super hard, be aggressive, and we're obviously going for the win."

### Olympiacos Piraeus vs. Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (20:15 CET)

**Georgios Bartzokas, Olympiacos Piraeus head coach**

"Partizan is a very good team. They are first in steals in the EuroLeague. They put a lot of their hands on the ball and they protect their rim. In general, they play aggressive defense. So, we must do right everything that we did wrong in the last five minutes of the game in the first round. Of course, in that game, we missed Sasha Vezenkov and Evan Fournier was present, but he was sick. It was a special situation. We must play up-tempo, pass the ball more and execute better. Over all, we must play really well against an opponent who fights to make it to the playoffs."

**Kostas Papanikolaou, Olympiacos Piraeus forward**

"Partizan puts a lot of pressure on their opponents. They like to take you out of your comfort zone. That’s why we must have clear minds in order to make the right decisions. Of course, we must play hard on defense. That will be the key."

**Zeljko Obradovic, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade head coach**

"Olympiacos is a team in exceptional form, currently dominating the EuroLeague. They sit at the top of the standings and have a fantastic roster, but what makes them truly strong is their ability to play as a cohesive unit. They move the ball well, execute different defensive schemes, and always know exactly what they’re doing on the court. We have to fight and give everything we’ve got. It’s going to be a tough and demanding game, but we’re going in with the desire to play at our best."

**Aleksej Pokusevski, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade forward**

"This is a very important game for us, just like every game ahead. They're a strong team with plenty of offensive options. We need to come in with high energy, execute what we've been working on in the past few days, and do our best to win. Every game matters, but against a team like this, a victory would be a big step forward and a major mental boost for us."

### ALBA Berlin vs. FC Barcelona (20:30 CET)

**Chimezie Metu, FC Barcelona center**

"It is a very important game. The standings are very close, one win could possibly move us up two or three places, so I think it's very important. And they are a good team, but they are last place in the league, so I think it is a game that we can't afford to lose at all. I think we have a good chance to make the playoffs still without having to go to the play-in. I think the last 6-7 games, all of them are favorable for us to win. We just have to go in and be focused. And I think the way the season has gone as far as injuries and everything, I think it's coming to a time where our luck is bound to change at some point. We are going to start getting guys back soon, and I think if you look at the entire season, when we have had our whole team, I think we have been very tough to beat. Like I just said, there are still chances for us to make the playoffs and I think we have kind of bounced back from a bad start. We just have to lock in for these last few weeks and win as many games as possible."

## Wednesday, March 5, 2025

### Paris Basketball vs. AS Monaco

\--

## Thursday, March 6, 2025

### FC Bayern Munich vs. Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (20:30 CET)

**Gordon Herbert, FC Bayern Munich head coach**

"Crvena Zvezda plays very aggressively and physically, and they are also overall very tall. We have to match their physicality and intensity appropriately and take good care of the ball offensively. We have to cope with the fact that we are not at full strength, and we have already managed that very well when Lucic and Giffey were out for a long time."

**Vladimir Lucic, FC Bayern Munich forward**

"They have a very deep roster with a lot of experience, as well as players and a coach who have already won at the highest level. This year, they are particularly motivated to make it back to the playoffs after some time. They are having a pretty good season and have already won the Serbian Cup. They will have strong support from their fans again in Munich, and I am looking forward to the atmosphere."

**Ioannis Sfairopoulos, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade head coach**

"We are playing against a very good team, which is offensively oriented with players who score points easily. We have to be focused and ready to play defense. If they find any opportunity, they can destroy any team. They have only two losses this season at home. We have to fight and play good defense, which we need, as well as play smart in attack. This is a very important game for us and we have to be ready for a tough fight."

**Ognjen Dobric, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade forward**

"The ambitions are always the highest, to play for the win and to play a good game. We had a good match against them in the first part of the season, it wasn't easy, we won, nothing is easy in the Euroleague. I expect a tough and demanding game there. I hope we will be focused for the whole 40 minutes to do the job as best we can and try to get the win."

### EA7 Emporio Armani Milan vs. Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (20:30 CET)

**Ettore Messina, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan head coach**

"We are facing a team of the highest level and enormous depth. We will have to attack the physicality that they bring at the defensive end of the floor by moving the ball quickly and executing the correct spacing, as well as being ready when it will be necessary to make some adjustments. Defensively, we know their potential, so we are aware that we will need to show great sacrifice and focus."

**Fabien Causeur, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan guard**

"For us, being consistent will be the most important aspect of a tough game against the second-placed team in the EuroLeague, team which is coming off a big road win in Paris. We need to avoid the ups and downs that sometimes are an issue for us, and stay solid for 40 minutes in general, but especially on defense and rebounding."

**Stefano Tonut, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan guard**

"The goal is to repeat last week's game with Monaco against a very strong and motivated opponent like Fenerbahce, with its talented players such as Wade Baldwin and Marko Guduric at my position. Now, given the standings, every game is a Game 5, and must be interpreted as such, especially playing at home in front of the crowd who will be our sixth man."

**Sarunas Jasikevicius, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul head coach**

"Milan is playing very good basketball since they went to the small lineup. It is extremely difficult to guard them, extremely difficult to play against five players who can open up, and can shoot three-pointers. I think this is probably one of the biggest keys to guard the three-point line, especially with four, five great shooters that they have. But probably the game will be decided with the easy points, fast break points and rebounding, fouls after bonus. There is a huge job in front of us."

**Marko Guduric, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul guard**

"It’s a second game of the double-week for us. It is obviously a very important game. We want to win, especially because they beat us badly in Istanbul. So, we just have to try to get prepared as best as we can. For this game, defense will be the key to get the win."

### Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz vs. Zalgiris Kaunas (20:30 CET)

\--

### Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens vs. Real Madrid (20:45 CET)

**Ergin Ataman, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens head coach**

"Real Madrid has one of the best rosters in the EuroLeague. And even though it is not in the best position in the standings, it is one of the candidates for the EuroLeague title. Always, in the big games they play different than in other games. So, it will be a tough game for us, it is very important to protect our home court and not to lose this game at home. Real Madrid has many high-potential players, Campazzo, Hezonja, Musa, Tavares…it will be a tough game. These players, with such career, with such potential, here against 20,000 people against a team which beat them in the final last season, they will give their best. We also have a very good roster. We won our last nine games \[in all competitions\], and we have to be ready to fight. This is not an exhibition game. Throughout the history, Panathinaikos and Real Madrid was always a big game, and this is also a big game that we need to win."

**Chus Mateo, Real Madrid head coach**

"We will have to play a good game to win in Athens. It has been a long time since we played against them earlier this season. At some point in that game we managed to lead by 22 points and ended up winning by 4, but what matters the most in this season's momentum and how we feel right here, right now. Panathinaikos is ahead of us in the standings but they know we also dangerous and know how to play against them. I wish we play a good game in Athens, in a difficult court \[OAKA Altion\] in which only two teams won so far in this EuroLeague season. We know we have to do things well in there if we want to have the chance to get the win."

**Walter Tavares, Real Madrid center**

"We face the game with a lot of motivation, knowing that this month is key for us. Panathinaikos is going to be a very demanding opponent, playing against them is always difficult and for that reason, we need to play together in each play, in every season. It is obvious that in order to win at OAKA, we must really stay together as a team. Defense is our strongest point, an aspect of the game that gives us confidence on offense. Above all, we have to think that each game is like a final and play with a lot of ambition, a lot of energy and without relaxing for even a second."

Check out what the coaches and players are saying ahead of Round 28 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season.

FC Bayern Munich took a big step towards securing a postseason berth in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague after a comprehensive 100-82 home drubbing of Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, garnished by 30 points from livewire guard Carsen Edwards.

Carsen Edwards shined as Bayern hit top gear against Zvezda 

[FC Bayern Munich](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/fc-bayern-munich/roster/mun/?season=2024-25) took a big step towards securing a postseason berth in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague after a comprehensive [100-82 home drubbing](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/bayern-blows-away-crvena-zvezda-100-82-to-stay-in-postseason-picture/) of [Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade/roster/red/?season=2024-25), garnished by 30 points from livewire guard [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/).

It wasn’t a promising start for Edwards, who turns 27 next week, as he picked up a monster block from Zvezda’s big man [Joel Bolomboy](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/joel-bolomboy/009035/) early on, but Bayern’s offensive driving force responded to the challenge superbly and led the German side to victory.

Edwards shot 10 of 17 from the floor and 4 of 5 from the foul line in a blistering individual display, which personified a flawless team effort. Bayern made 19 of 37 shots from downtown and dished out 23 assists, taking Zvezda to the cleaners after the visitors had raced off into an early 0-9 lead. 

Carsen Edwards scored 30 against Zvezda

“We just had to come out and try to be at our best as they’re still a great team and we knew they were going to come back at us because they’ve got guys who can score,” Edwards said in his postgame comments. “I was able to get some open shots today and I knew it wasn’t going to be easy because they’re such a good defensive team, but we moved the ball really well.”

Bayern pulled away to 64-37 on the back of a 25-0 run before Zvezda fought back in the closing stages to slash the deficit to 93-82, but it was too little too late against a rampant home team, which closed out the game with a decisive 7-0 run.

The home team’s veteran captain [Vladimir Lucic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vladimir-lucic/001288/), a former [Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/partizan-nis-belgrade/roster/par/?season=2024-25) stalwart, endured taunts from Zvezda’s raucous fans throughout the contest and silenced the visiting crowd with a vintage performance that yielded 18 points and 7 boards.

“We were a bit nervous at the start of the game but the good thing is that we found a way to play at both ends while still missing three guys in the rotation,” said Lucic. “It’s a big win and from here onwards it’s one game at a time, the next one is the most important.”

Coach Gordon Herbert hailed his team’s majestic response to a slow start, as Bayern fired on all cylinders after falling behind in the opening exchanges.  

“Our second and third quarter were outstanding,” Herbert said. “We knew they were going to come back at us in the fourth, but the guys persevered, and I give them a lot of credit.

“If you take away the first 3 or 4 minutes of the game, I thought we played a really good first half and then we made a great start to the third quarter. Our defensive approach got better and we moved the basketball to good effect.”

In Round 29 next week, Bayern is at home to [Anadolu Efes Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/anadolu-efes-istanbul/roster/ist/?season=2024-25) while Zvezda entertains [EA7 Emporio Armani Milan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/ea7-emporio-armani-milan/roster/mil/?season=2024-25) in a battle of two wounded teams looking for lifeline wins.

The dynamic guard poured in a game-high 30 points to lead his team to an emphatic home win