Name: RIVALRIES | Episode 1: Istanbul - Efes and Fenerbahce: Two Teams, One City | Documentary Series
Channel: Euroleague Basketball

Euroleague Basketball has announced the following disciplinary sanctions pertaining to incidents that occurred in Round 1 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season.

Round 1 disciplinary sanctions

- Mr. Facundo Campazzo, player of Real Madrid, has been sanctioned with a one game suspension and a fine of €5,000 for actions that represent a lack of respect towards the referees, on occasion of its away game against Bayern Munich under 27.2.b) of the Euroleague Basketball Disciplinary Code.
- Crvena Zvezda Meridanbet Belgrade has been sanctioned with a fine of €7,000 for the throwing of objects onto the playing court by its fans, on occasion of its away game against Paris Basketball under 29.2.h) of the Euroleague Basketball Disciplinary Code.

  *These decisions may be appealed before the Appeals Judge.*

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana has managed to turn things around. After a 0-15 start to the 2023-24 BKT EuroCup season, Cedevita won its first two games this season and is one of four undefeated teams in Group A. A balanced offense has allowed Coach Zvezdan Mitrovic's team to be strong right away: six players are averaging double digits in scoring so far. One of them is point guard Aleksej Nikolic

Aleksej Nikolic, Cedevita: 'Consistency is the key to good results'

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana has managed to turn things around. After a 0-15 start to the 2023-24 BKT EuroCup season, Cedevita won its first two games this season and is one of four undefeated teams in Group A. A balanced offense has allowed Coach Zvezdan Mitrovic's team to be strong right away: six players are averaging double digits in scoring so far.

One of them is point guard Aleksej Nikolic, who left Slovenia as a teenager and played in Bosnia & Herzegovina, Germany, Serbia, Italy, France and Spain before returning to his home country. Nikolic has averaged 13.0 points on 54.5% three-point shooting, 2.5 assists and a PIR of 14.0 so far this season. Nikolic gave professional and personal reasons for playing for Cedevita this season, as he told Javier Gancedo of [EuroCupBasketball.com](http://EuroCupBasketball.com) in this interview.

"What they presented me and how we talked about what the team is going to look like and what they are trying to accomplish, for me, it made sense. I liked it. So from a basketball standpoint, that was a yes," Nikolic said. "And another thing is, of course, now being a father, having a family coming home can make a lot of stuff a little bit easier."

**Hello, Aleksej. First things first, Cedevita Olimpija is 2-0 this season after a start 0-15 last season. How important was a good start to get that thought out of the way?** 

"To be really honest, we tried not to compare too much what was happening last season with what is going on now. In many ways, it is a new team, a completely different system, and how we play kind of separates both stories. But nevertheless, you want to start well regardless of what was going on before. These are crucial wins for us, to let us know that we are doing something good, that we are maybe on the right path. And when you win, it is a lot easier to have confidence and move on, so being 2-0 is really good for us to start."

"I believe Luka [Doncic] follows our results and he maybe watches some games."

**You had a balanced offense in both games, many players in double digits of PIR but none over 21 in any of the games. How great of a sign is that?** 

"The team is built that way. We have a lot of guys that can deliver good performances at any time of the game. It doesn't really necessarily have to be anybody starting well, or even the other way around: someone can start well and have a tough time after that. If someone starts slow and then in the end he is the one to pull us, it is the team that matters. By having this kind of bench depth, it is kind of easier that in any game, anyone can have a good night or a good game."

**You were trusted with the game-cliching free throws at the end of the game against Reyer. You have always been terrific at that. What does it take to be an elite free throw shooter?** 

"I believe free throws is repetition, focus and just working on it, trying to imagine situations where you have to score important free throws. We have to try to do it in practice because, in the game, it's a whole different story. But like I said, you can try to make the environment in practice for that kind of, let's say, pressure to simulate what it can be like in the game."

**It feels like yesterday when we saw you with Spars in the ANGT, but you will turn 30 next season and just became a father. How does all that experience impact your game?** 

"Oh, a whole lot. I'd like to think that I have some sort of experience because of how many leagues and countries I have been around throughout my career so far: France, Spain, Italy, Germany, ABA League... everywhere! I try to pick up different things that I can learn and adapt to any kind of basketball-style gameplay. All of that together, as I like to say, can benefit me to recognize situations that maybe I have been there before and to move through them. Let's say it is easier to recognize them, easier to read them. And of course, like you said, being a father creates a whole new perspective in my life. I guess it gives me another motivation to really try to be better every day in every aspect of my life."

Aleksej Nikolic averages 13.0 points and 2.4 assists for Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana so far this season.

Nikolic leads Cedevita to 2-0 start in Group B

**You are also back in Slovenia for the first time since you were a teenager. Was it one of the main factors to join Cedevita Olimpija?** 

"I mean, there are two things I'd like to say about my decision \[to join the club\]. What they presented me and how we talked about what the team is going to look like and what they are trying to accomplish, for me, it made sense. I liked it. So from a basketball standpoint, that was a yes. And another thing is, of course, now being a father, having a family coming home can make a lot of stuff a little bit easier. So those two factors were the deciders, honestly. And I have to say, I am so far satisfied with my decision."

**You played with Jaka Blazic in the Slovenian national team for many years. How great is it to have him as a mentor and leader in Cedevita Olimpija?** 

"The idea is great, he has a lot of experience. First of all, just being in this club, understanding the environment, ascending the situation. When I decided to come to \[Cedevita\] Olimpija, I first called him to let him know, and he was happy about it. We talked about everything a little bit, so having him around is just to keep reminding us where we play and who we are on the court. Like you said, he has a lot of experience and I like to believe he can recognize all situations. He is ready in any moment, and prepared, for anything that comes our way. And as a captain, he leads us."

**Speaking of the Slovenian national team, does Luka Doncic follow you guys and Cedevita Olimpija? He and his father played for Olimpija in the past, after all...**

"I believe Luka follows our results and he maybe watches some games. I know that, as a kid, he was coming to watch the games when Olimpija was still in the EuroLeague, this was like 10-12 years ago or even more, if I'm not mistaken. But I know he is, let's say, a fan or a follower of the club. I think he does follow us a little bit."

"I like to think that I follow basketball a lot. Let's say I am a basketball junkie."

**You love basketball and everything about it. How much do you like to talk about basketball and follow competitions in your time off? Do you remember any teammate who loved to talk about basketball at all times?** 

"Oh yeah, I like to think that I follow basketball a lot. Let's say I am a basketball junkie. I like to know stuff. I follow the NBA, the EuroLeague and I try to follow as many leagues as I can. I try to pick up some stuff throughout the games, maybe something innovative I can see on the court. For that, I am really passionate and my wife is the same. She follows basketball a lot, not as freakishly as me. A little less than that, of course, but we watch EuroLeague together almost every time when we can. As for teammates, I would have to say the biggest ones were Nikos Zisis and Nicolo Melli back from the Bamberg days. I have to say those two guys. So I found victims, let's say, to really talk about everything. But let's say these two are the first ones that came to mind, Nikos and Nicolo. We would watch sometimes games together back in the day."

**Hmm... Amedeo Della Valle, maybe?** 

"Oh, of course, Amedeo. He watches a lot of basketball, too. He loves it. I give him an honorable mention."

**Your next game is against Turk Telekom Ankara, which is also 2-0 so far. How much are you looking forward to this game at this time of the season, knowing that both teams are undefeated?**

"I think we can expect a good game, a hard game, especially them playing at home. They are gonna feel very confident, for sure. And like you said, they won two games, close games, so from that standpoint, we can suggest that they know how to win this kind of game. They have enough experience, it's going to be really tough. We will have to prepare really well. Tactically speaking, they can be really sharp with their head coach \[Erdem Can\]." 

**Finally, you are off to a good start. What does Cedevita Olimpija need to do to go to the playoffs and then see what happens?**

"We skipped most of the season now, it's too early to think about the playoffs. But I think for any team, I believe that consistency is the key to good results, so in order for us to achieve this, we are going to have to stay consistent with our playing level. That doesn't necessarily mean that we will win every game. You cannot guarantee that, but you can have consistency and if we have that, you can expect good results. This is what we will try to aim for, and then, like you said, we will see what happens at the end of the season." 

More Cedevita Olimpija News

The Cedevita playmaker spoke in an exclusive interview with Javier Gancedo

Check out what the protagonists are saying ahead of the BKT EuroCup Round 3, and who might be missing in action.

Round 3: Pre-game quotes and injury reports

## Tuesday, October 8

### 7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys vs. Aris Midea Thessaloniki (18:00 CEST)

**Ioannis Kastritis, Aris Midea Thessaloniki head coach**

"We have a very demanding mission, facing Lietkabelis on the road. Both teams are looking for their first win in the competition and I believe it’s going to be a very tough game. We need to be very focused and decisive in both ends, controlling the tempo of the game, a factor that will be crucial for the final result."

**Lefteris Bochoridis, Aris Midea Thessaloniki guard**

"We are looking for our first win in the EuroCup and we have a difficult game ahead. Lietkabelis has 0-2 like us, but it is a very good team. In order to get the win, we have to be very concentrated, avoid turnovers and be much more effective in our offense. If we do those things in the biggest part of the game, we can get our first victory for this season."

### Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius vs. ratiopharm Ulm (18:00 CEST)

**Alessandro Magro, Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius head coach:**

"It will be a very tough game. Ulm is a team that has won all five games from the start of the season in both the domestic league and the BKT EuroCup. This will be our second home game, and we’ve elevated our level of play in recent games. Even in our last game against Hapoel, we did a lot of good things throughout the game. We are confident that we have the will to try to have the first win, especially in front of our fans here in Vilnius."

**Matas Jogela, Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius forward:**

"The Ulm team is very dangerous. They have a lot of good shooters and share the ball well in possession. We expect a very competitive game, but we need to focus on ourselves first. We’ve conceded too many points in the last few games, and that’s the main issue we need to fix. So, our big focus should be on defense. After the victory in the national league, we will try to carry that positive energy into this game."

### Turk Telekom Ankara vs. Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (18:30 CEST)

**Djordje Adzic, Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana assistant coach:**

"Turk Telekom is a team built to achieve the highest goals in the EuroCup. Two seasons ago, they reached the final of the competition, and this season, they also have big ambitions, being considered favorites to take first place in our group. Tuesday's game will be specific for both teams; after two games, both teams have two wins, and both have one important player injured in their rotation - Brynton Lemar for us, and Vasilis Charalampopoulos for the Turkish team, who also got injured in the previous round of the EuroCup. Turk Telekom is a good team with good players, especially in guard positions. Our opponents are dangerous on both sides of the court, and our task is to take advantage of the opportunities that will arise in the game."

**Bine Prepelic, Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana forward:**

"Both teams have started the new EuroCup season with two wins in their first two games. We know that Tuesday's away game will be difficult in a hall with loud fans. Turk Telekom plays extremely aggressively both on offense and defense. We have an evening practice in Ankara to prepare thoroughly, but I believe that with team play and the style of play we’ve shown in the opening games of the EuroCup season, we can hope for a good outcome. We’ve started the EuroCup season excellently, just as we quietly hoped. With two wins, we’ve already improved on last season’s result, but that doesn’t satisfy us. We need to maintain this rhythm and continue racking up more wins."

**Injury report**: head coach Zvezdan Mitrovic will be unable to attend the game due to illness; Brynton Lemar is OUT according to the club

### Besiktas Fibabank Istanbul vs. Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv (20:00 CEST)

**Stefanos Dedas, Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv head coach**

"We have one more tough game ahead of us against one of the best teams in the competition that has the same players and coaching staff as they did last year. They hurt our team last year and we want to take basketball revenge and double our wins in the competition. There will be up and downs during the game but we have to show character and get this win."

**Tomer Ginat, Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv forward**

"We learned last season that every game matters and the game against Besiktas is very important for us. We come with confidence after our first victory last week. We will do what we can to get the win and make our fans and community happy in this difficult time."

### Umana Reyer Venice vs. Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse (20:00 CEST)

**Neven Spahija, Umana Reyer Venice head coach**

"In our conditions, every opponent is really difficult to face. In particular, Bourg, a team that is playing great basketball, both offensively and defensively, with a lot of talent. We need to focus on ourselves and on what we are called to do. Our main focus right now is defense; we have to do much better, and the main goal of this game for us is to take a step forward in our half of the court. In \[the Italian League game in\] Trento, we lost the game due to defensive details, also caused by a lack of concentration.

**Davide Moretti, Umana Reyer Venice guard**

"It will be a tough game because they are a solid team and in good form; unfortunately, we know our situation. But we are playing at home, and we will try to leverage this factor, imposing our game and giving our all for forty minutes. We need to build on the mentality we had in Trento, without giving an inch and fighting for every possession. There are things we cannot control, like injuries, but getting through this moment will help us for the rest of the season. In any case, we go onto the court to win.

**Frederic Fauthoux, Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse head coach**

"The season is underway, we're playing one match after another. It's never easy to play away and against this Reyer team. Currently, we have two victories, and we want to continue in this direction, to position ourselves well in the championship."

**Adrian Nelson, Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse forward**

"Reyer is a very solid team and has been playing good so far in EuroCup and at home. As a team, we know that we have to be great on the defense. We have to stay true to ourselves, play together, and be confident."

**Injury report:**

**Xavier Munford** is OUT: following a severe contusion sustained in the game against Treviso, has suffered a cartilage injury to his right knee. The player will be reevaluated in 15 days.

**Tyler Ennis** is a game-time decision: Ennis has sustained a sprain to his right knee during the game against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana. The player is working with the technical and physiotherapy staff for a swift recovery.

**Jordan Parks** is OUT: During Thursday's practice, Parks experienced a muscle strain in his right thigh. Medical examinations revealed a muscle injury in the right groin area, which will be clinically reevaluated in two weeks.

**Amedeo Tessitori** is OUT: Tessitori sustained a sprain to his right ankle during the Trento - Reyer game in the Italian League. The player is undergoing diagnostic tests and will be out vs. Bourg.

## Wednesday, October 9

### U-BT Cluj-Napoca vs. Valencia Basket (18:00 CEST)

**Mihai Silvasan, U-BT Cluj-Napoca head coach**

"Everybody knows who Valencia is in the world of basketball. They are an extremely strong team. They want to compete in the Euroleague and they have great players. They started the season strong, but we cannot wait for this game. I am glad we will finally have our full roster. I hope we will play good quality basketball and we want the victory, especially that we will play at home, with many fans cheering for us."

**Sasu Salin, U-BT Cluj-Napoca guard**

"Valencia is one of the toughest teams in the competition, one of the favorites. I have played many times against them, I know their level. They are well coached, they play fast. They take many offensive rebounds. I think we have very good chances here, at home. We will go there and enjoy the game. We have better confidence and we will play with much energy. The fans are very supportive, even though we lost the first two home games. We want to show a different type of basketball for our fans and give them wins."

**Juan Maroto, Valencia Basket head coach**

“These two home games, we have noticed the crowd. And the other game we played away in the EuroCup was in Bulgaria. So now we go to an important atmosphere, so imposing, cheering as much as we saw in their first game in Romania against Cedevita. We must keep our style, try to put our philosophy on every game, without caring too much if the opponent plays one way or another or if the atmosphere is more or less hostile. They already have a certain history in the EuroCup, they have very good Americans, especially in the point guard position with Simpson, he is a top player in assists right now and very important in scoring. Mokoka seems to me another totally essential player. Two inside players also with a certain level, the truth is that it is a team with great players, who play at a good pace and with a good style, the truth is that I liked them a lot”.

**Nate Reuvers, Valencia Basket forward**

“We definitely want to stay strong like we have been, and go there and try to get another win. We want to stay involved, playing at 100% all the time. And if you can't play at 100% anymore, the teammate that comes in has to go out there and give it their all. I think the team's style suits me. Obviously I want to keep improving, I think there's more I can give and I want to keep going.”

**Injury report:** Chris Jones out (finger), Goran Filipovic (not called up).

### Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem vs. Veolia Towers Hamburg (19:00 CEST)

**Yonatan Alon, Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem head coach:**

"We want to maintain the positive momentum we built in the last EuroCup game and in our league debut. We feel like we're getting into a good rhythm and starting to discover who we are as a team. We'll be facing a tough opponent, one we have great respect for, and we must not underestimate any rival in the EuroCup. As always, we'll enter the game aiming to win and to bring a bit of joy to our fans during this challenging and complex time."

**Gabi Chachashvili, Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem center:**

"It's important for us to keep moving in the positive direction we're on, show quality basketball and, of course, continue our winning streak. We feel that Hamburg is a better team than their results suggest, and we will need to come in very focused and play our style of basketball. It's very important for us to make our fans happy, they are, supporting us from afar – we feel their love and support all the time."

**Jerusalem injury Report**: Nimrod Levi OUT (ankle injury), Khadeen Carrington OUT (personal matters)

**Hamburg injury report**: Zsombor Maronka OUT (ankle joint injury), Keondre Kennedy OUT (temporary muscular hip injury), Niklas Wimberg OUT (recovering from a broken leg), Kur Kuath OUT (temporary knee problems)

### Trefl Sopot vs. Joventut Badalona (19:00 CEST)

**Geoffrey Groselle, Trefl Sopot center:**

They are a very talented team, all really good players. We are ready to fight, give our best effort. I can promise we are going to fight. We have to focus on the thing the coach is preaching to us every day, like 50-50 balls, playing hard, being in the right position.

**Injury report**: All of Trefl's players are available for Round 3.

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

**Fabio Bongi, Dolomiti Energia Trento assistant coach**

“We go into the challenge against Podgorica with great confidence and charge, despite some absences due to some injuries. They have a high-level roster, full of experienced players, and an extremely competitive group of big men. In the first games of the season they have shown that they are a close-knit group, who like to share the ball and help each other a lot on defense.”

**Myles Cale, Dolomiti Energia Trento guard**

“Yesterday we started preparing for the challenge against Buducnost and we know that they will definitely come determined after two losses in the EuroCup. They have many interesting players and we have to stay focused to prepare as best we can, bringing with us the enthusiasm of the last games. I hope many fans will come to support us, because the atmosphere on Saturday, when everyone started jumping, was wonderful.”

**Injury report:** Eigirdas Zukauskas out (ankle).

### Dreamland Gran Canaria vs. Bahcesehir College Istanbul (21:00 CEST)

**Dejan Radonjic, Bahcesehir College Istanbul head coach**

"We all know how good of a team Gran Canaria is. Every year they form a solid team and they have been working with the same coach for the third straight year who is doing a great job with the team. They started the season really well too, we are expecting a very tough game. They are the best team in steals and best transition team in our league. We have to be aware to play all 40 minutes with maximum focus."

**Furkan Haltali, Bahcesehir College Istanbul center**

"This is going to be a very important and hard game for us. We know that every game matters and we will give everything to get the win. We started the season well and we aim to keep it that way, but we can not take it for granted."

Dreamland Gran Canaria v Bahcesehir College Istanbul (2024-10-09T19:00:00.000Z)

Dolomiti Energia Trento v Buducnost VOLI Podgorica (2024-10-09T18:00:00.000Z)

Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem v Veolia Towers Hamburg (2024-10-09T17:00:00.000Z)

Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul v Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv (2024-10-08T18:00:00.000Z)

Trefl Sopot v Joventut Badalona (2024-10-09T17:00:00.000Z)

U-BT Cluj-Napoca v Valencia Basket (2024-10-09T16:00:00.000Z)

Umana Reyer Venice v Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse (2024-10-08T18:00:00.000Z)

Turk Telekom Ankara v Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (2024-10-08T16:30:00.000Z)

7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys v Aris Midea Thessaloniki (2024-10-08T16:00:00.000Z)

Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius v ratiopharm Ulm (2024-10-08T16:00:00.000Z)

All of a sudden, we are about to start Round 3 od the BKT EuroCup Regular Season. Seven teams remain undefeated in the competition while seven others are looking for their first victory. You can still find some top-class bargains in the EuroCup Fantasy Challenge. Instead of going for the most expensive players, we are trying to give you options to enhance your team ahead of Round 3.

Fantasy Challenge tips, Round 3: Plenty of bargains!

All of a sudden, we are about to start Round 3 of the BKT EuroCup Regular Season. Seven teams remain undefeated in the competition while seven others are looking for their first victory. You can still find some top-class bargains in the [EuroCup Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/). Instead of going for the most expensive players, we are trying to give you options to enhance your team ahead of Round 3. Here they are:

### Jared Harper, Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (11.1 credits)

Harper has just been unstoppable so far this season and the fact that he is only 11.1 credits makes him a must-have player in all teams. He is averaging 25.0 points on 96.7% free throws, 3.5 assists, 9.0 fouls drawn and a PIR of 27.0. His shooting percentages are low (35.3% 2FG, 25.0% 3FG) so he has potential to do even better. Buy him now!

### Adrian Nelson, Cosea JL Bourg en Bresse (9.9 credits)

Nelson has surprised a lot of EuroCup fans with his overall energy and effectiveness. In two games, he has averaged 14.5 points on solid shooting (63.6% 2FG, 44.4% 3FG), 4.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals, no turnovers (in 42 minutes!) and a PIR of 19.5. Nelson can do a little bit of everything, and that always has fantasy value. Less than 10 credits, too.

Javier Gancedo is happy to provide a few suggestions to improve your fantasy teams ahead of BKT EuroCup Round 3.

Fantasy Challenge tips, Round 3

### Noa Essengue, ratiopharm Ulm (6.5 credits)

A lot was expected from Essengue, but I would say he is doing even better so far this season. He is averaging 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and a PIR of 18.0. He has a big role in the team and at just 6.5 credits, his price is very, very low. Essengue is owned by 23.3% of all fantasy teams. That means over 75% of managers are missing out.

### Stefan Jovic, Valencia Basket (10.3 credits)

Chris Jones is injured, so Jovic is Valencia's natural first choice at point guard. He has been around for a while, both in Valencia and in European competitions. Jovic has been solid, too, averaging 10.0 points on a whooping 87.5% two-point shooting, 3.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists and a PIR of 15.5. Expect him to be Valencia's main floor general in Round 3.

### Marko Simonovic, Bahcesehir College Istanbul (11.0 credits)

A force of nature coming off the bench, Simonovic has posted good numbers, leading Bahcesehir to a 2-0 record. He is averaging 11.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals, 2.0 blocks and a PIR of 16.5. There are not so many good centers out there but with Simonovic and Tai Odiase, Bahcesehir has made sure to be really deep and dangerous at both ends.

Javier Gancedo is happy to provide a few suggestions to help you improve your fantasy teams.

Round 2 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague starts earlier than usual with a pair of games on Wednesday. This is your lowdown on all the upcoming action, including a must-watch local derby on Thursday.

At a glance: Istanbul derby highlights three days of Round 2 action

Round 2 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague starts earlier than usual with a pair of games on Wednesday. This is your lowdown on all the upcoming action, including a must-watch local derby on Thursday.

## Wednesday, October 9

### AS Monaco vs Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (19:00 CEST)

After starting the campaign with solid victories, Monaco and Maccabi will look to improve to 2-0 in a rematch of 2023’s thrilling playoffs series, won by Monaco in five games. Monaco, which is [missing the injured Furkan Korkmaz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/monaco-furkan-korkmaz-to-miss-3-4-weeks/), as well as [Nick Calathes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/nick-calathes-out-3-4-weeks-with-knee-injury/), will look for backcourt supremacy through [Elie Okobo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/elie-okobo/011212/), who started the season well at both ends of the floor with 14 points, 4 assists and 3 steals in the opening round win over EA7 Emporio Armani Milan. That game also featured a strong performance from big man [Mam Jaiteh](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mam-jaiteh/002581/) with 10 points and 7 boards, who faces a big battle with [Jasiel Rivero](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jasiel-rivero/011214/) after Maccabi’s center had 11 points and 9 boards to help defeat LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne. In the backcourt, Round 1 MVP [Tamir Blatt](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tamir-blatt/011193/) will look to stay hot and [Jordan Loyd](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jordan-loyd/009754/) will be motivated by facing his former teammates.

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Okobo vs. Loyd

### Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade vs Baskonia-Vitoria Gasteiz (20:00 CEST)

Two early pace-setters will look to grab a second straight win as Zvezda plays host to Baskonia. The Spanish team used a big fourth quarter to claim an opening week home victory against Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, thanks to the usual scoring heroics from [Markus Howard](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/markus-howard/011948/) (17 points) and a solid debut from new backcourt teammate [Trent Forrest](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/trent-forrest/013367/) (10 points, 4 assists). Another strong first game came from [Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/timothe-luwawu-cabarrot/012080/) with 15 points, showing that Pablo Laso’s team has weapons all over the floor. Zvezda stayed strong on the road at Paris, in large part thanks to the long-range shooting skills of [Nemanja Nedovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nemanja-nedovic/000848/) with 5-of-6 triples converted, and [Codi-Miller McIntyre](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/codi-miller-mcintyre/009048/) will be particularly keen to shine as he goes up against his former team.

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Nedovic vs. Luwawu-Cabarrot

## Thursday, October 10

### Anadolu Efes Istanbul vs Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (19:30 CEST)

One of the highlights of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season will get Thursday’s action started as Efes faces Fenerbahce for the Istanbul derby. The visiting team will have to cope [without scoring star Scottie Wilbekin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-confirms-the-worst-scottie-wilbekin-has-torn-his-acl/) after he suffered long-term injury in the opening week win over Olympiacos Piraeus, and will hope that new signing [Wade Baldwin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/wade-baldwin-iv/009863/) can compensate by continuing his great start to the season after recording 19 points and 7 assists a week ago. Efes also got off to a winning start by winning at Virtus Segafredo Bologna, with 14 points and 9 boards from [Dan Oturu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/dan-oturu/012788/) showing the roster’s strength in the paint. [Shane Larkin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shane-larkin/007200/) showed his shooting skills with a trio of three-pointers in that game, and slowing him down is key for Fenerbahce.

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Larkin vs. Baldwin

### LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne vs Virtus Segafredo Bologna (20:00 CEST)

ASVEL is looking for its first win after being edged out by Maccabi last week, and the power of frontcourt duo [Joffrey Lauvergne](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/joffrey-lauvergne/004194/) and [Tarik Black](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tarik-black/008991/) will be important against the size of Virtus big men [Ante Zizic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ante-zizic/004554/) and [Toko Shengelia](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tornike-shengelia/001133/)**.** In the backcourt, ASVEL will look for creativity and defense from [Paris Lee](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/paris-lee/011225/), and hope that [Nando De Colo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nando-de-colo/002100/) can score the 14 points he needs to become only the second player (after Vassilis Spanoulis) to reach 4,500 EuroLeague points. Virtus was disappointed to score only 67 points in last week’s home loss to Efes, and needs to find much better offensive fluidity after only scoring 21 field goals in that game while committing 18 turnovers.

### 

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Lauvergne vs. Shengelia

### Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens vs FC Bayern Munich (20:15 CEST)

A pair of opening week winners go head-to-head as Panathinaikos welcomes Bayern. It will be the Greens’ first home game since lifting the EuroLeague title in May, so an electric atmosphere is guaranteed. But that shouldn’t faze a Bayern team which showed great resolve to claim a prestigious win over Real Madrid last week, with new signings [Shabazz Napier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shabazz-napier/011224/) and [Johannes Voigtmann](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/johannes-voigtmann/007201/) excelling. Panathinaikos eased to victory at ALBA Berlin to start the season in style, and the home team’s outstanding selection of guards – including home debutant [Lorenzo Brown](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/lorenzo-brown/009622/) – will look to control the tempo and limit the effectiveness of Napier and [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/). Another key confrontation will be between a pair of sweet shooting forwards, [Konstantinos Mitoglou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/konstantinos-mitoglou/007866/) and [Vladimir Lucic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vladimir-lucic/001288/).

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Nunn vs.Napier

### Real Madrid vs Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (20:45 CEST)

Two teams aiming to respond to opening week losses meet as Real hosts Partizan. The Spanish powerhouse was stunned by a fourth quarter collapse against Bayern, and coach Chus Mateo will be urging his players to show greater defensive consistency against Zeljko Obradovic’s new-look roster. [Facundo Campazzo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/facundo-campazzo/005928/) started the season in his usual whirlwind fashion with 19 points and 9 assists, and he faces a good matchup in Partizan’s EuroLeague newcomer [Carlik Jones](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carlik-jones/013369/) (6 assists in Round 1’s defeat at Baskonia). The battle in the paint will be fiercely contested as Real giants [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) and [Serge Ibaka](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/serge-ibaka/003583/) go up against visiting duo [Brandon Davies](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/brandon-davies/007870/) and [Tyrique Jones](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tyrique-jones/011981/), who combined for 42 points in the loss in Vitoria.

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Musa vs. Marinkovic

## Friday, October 11

### Olympiacos Piraeus vs Zalgiris Kaunas (20:15 CEST)

After already claiming one heavyweight scalp by overcoming Barcelona last week, Zalgiris is looking to build more momentum with a trip to Piraeus. The visiting team will hope that former Olympiacos forward [Ignas Bradzeikis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ignas-brazdeikis/011983/) (17 points and 5 rebounds against Barca) will return to haunt his old team. [Sylvain Francisco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sylvain-francisco/007975/) also excelled in the Round 1 win with 19 points, but he faces a tough task in overcoming the Reds’ notoriously tough defense led by [Thomas Walkup](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/thomas-walkup/008855/). Olympiacos is gunning for a first win of the season after being downed by Fenerbahce last week, and needs to improve its long-range shooting after making only 4 of its 20 three-point attempts. [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/) is sure to receive a big welcome in his first home game back with the Reds.

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: McKissic vs. Francisco

### FC Barcelona vs ALBA Berlin (20:30 CEST)

Two teams chasing a first win meet at Palau Blaugrana as Barcelona welcomes ALBA. The Spanish side will look for better offensive production after only scoring 67 points in last week’s loss at Zalgiris, where sharpshooters [Alex Abrines](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/alex-abrines/003478/) and [Jabari Parker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jabari-parker/012745/) combined for just 2 of their 11 three-point attempts. Barca will give home debuts to young guard [Juan Nunez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/juan-nunez/010106/) and dynamic big man [Chimezie Metu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/chimezie-metu/013379/), who faces a good battle for supremacy at the rim with [Khalifa Koumadje](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/khalifa-koumadje/010791/) after the ALBA center claimed 13 rebounds in the opening round loss to Panathinaikos. ALBA’s playmaking duties will be led by [Martin Hermannsson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/martin-hermannsson/008780/), who started the season strongly with 12 points and 9 assists and will now look to outshine [Tomas Satoransky](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tomas-satoransky/002939/) and [Nico Laprovittola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolas-laprovittola/006435/).

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Laprovittola vs. McDowell-White

### EA7 Emporio Armani Milan vs Paris Basketball (20:30 CEST)

Paris faces its first ever EuroLeague road game with a trip to Milan. The Italian team is looking for a first win of the season after succumbing to Monaco in Round 1, and coach Ettore Messina will demand better interior defense after allowing the Roca Team to convert 26 two-point shots on 40 attempts (65%). Offensively, Milan will hope for another strong showing from new signing [Armoni Brooks](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/armoni-brooks/013384/) (16 points in Round 1) and more production from star forward [Nikola Mirotic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nikola-mirotic/000796/) (9 points), while [Josh Nebo is out](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/josh-nebo-olimpia-milano-to-be-reevaluated-in-two-weeks/) through injury. For Paris, 16 points from backcourt star [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) wasn’t enough to overcome Zvezda last week, and backcourt teammate [Maodo Lo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/maodo-lo/007032/) will look for a big night against his old team.

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 2 Head-to-Head: Brooks vs. Hifi

Nine Round 2 games are spread over three days, from Wednesday until Friday.

AS Monaco v Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (2024-10-09T17:00:00.000Z)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (2024-10-09T18:00:00.000Z)

Anadolu Efes Istanbul v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2024-10-10T17:30:00.000Z)

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne v Virtus Segafredo Bologna (2024-10-10T18:00:00.000Z)

Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens v FC Bayern Munich (2024-10-10T18:15:00.000Z)

Real Madrid v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2024-10-10T18:45:00.000Z)

Olympiacos Piraeus v Zalgiris Kaunas (2024-10-11T18:15:00.000Z)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan v Paris Basketball (2024-10-11T18:30:00.000Z)

FC Barcelona v ALBA Berlin (2024-10-11T18:30:00.000Z)

Seven unbeaten teams will put their perfect starts on the line in Round 3 of the BKT EuroCup, and here you can find out everything you need to know about Tuesday and Wednesday’s action.

At a glance: Things starting to heat up in Round 3

Seven unbeaten teams will put their perfect starts on the line in Round 3 of the BKT EuroCup, and here you can find out everything you need to know about Tuesday and Wednesday’s action.

## Tuesday, October 8

### 7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys vs Aris Midea Thessaloniki (18:00 CEST)

A first victory is up for grabs as two winless teams meet when Lietkabelis (0-2) hosts Aris (0-2). Both teams have struggled for offensive production so far, respectively ranking 18th and 20th in the competition in scoring (70.0 vs 69.0 points per game). Lietkabelis has the EuroCup’s worst three-point shooting record (24.1%), but there’s more to come from Georgios Kalaitzakis after he scored 12 points on 3-of-5 field goal shooting last week against Hapoel Jerusalem. Round 2 saw Aris edged out by Turk Telekom at home, but new signing Joshua Roberts gave a great performance with 14 points and 6 offensive rebounds and his efforts to gain extra possessions could be crucial.

### Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius vs ratiopharm Ulm (18:00 CEST)

Wolves (0-2) will aim to kickstart its campaign against an Ulm team (2-0) looking to extend its perfect start. Ulm has been firing on all cylinders offensively, with five different players averaging double digits scoring. That includes Nelson Weidemann, whose 17 points helped gain a statement-making win over Joventut Badalona last week. Wolves should not be too disheartened after competing well in its two losses, and will look for Tre’Shawn Thurman to stay hot after blitzing 29 points on 8-of-10 field goal shooting in last week’s narrow defeat at Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv. But the Lithuanian team must improve its interior defense after allowing opponents to convert 67.6% of two-point shots – most in the competition.

### 

2024-25 BKT EuroCup | Round 3 Head-to-Head: Thurman vs. Jessup

### Turk Telekom Ankara vs Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (18:30 CEST)

A pair of fast starters go head to head as Turk Telekom (2-0) and Cedevita (2-0) aim to make it three straight wins. Their successes have come in very different ways, with Turk Telekom boasting the EuroCup’s best defense (64.5 ppg. allowed), while Cedevita has averaged a fourth-best 90.0 ppg. Long-range accuracy has been key for the visiting team, with Brynton Lemar (13.5 ppg. on 60% three-point shooting) among those giving Cedevita the competition’s best conversion rate from beyond the arc (45.6%). The ability of Kyle Alexander (11 rpg.) to control the paint will be crucial for Turk Telekom.

2024-25 BKT EuroCup | Round 3 Head-to-Head: Brown vs. Stewart

### Besiktas Fibabank Istanbul vs Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv (20:00 CEST)

A close contest is expected as Besiktas (1-1) hosts Hapoel Tel Aviv (1-1) for a repeat of last season’s quarterfinal, won 89-94 by Besiktas. The Turkish team will be especially motivated after suffering a 21-point mauling in last week’s Istanbul derby against Bahcesehir, when 16 points from Conor Morgan was one of the only shining lights. Besitkas was heavily outrebounded in that contest, so will look to show more physicality against a Hapoel team led in the paint by Johnathan Motley (6.0 rpg.). Patrick Beverley led his team to last week’s opening win over Wolves by pairing 14 points with 6 assists, and his ability to control the tempo will be vital.

### Umana Reyer Venice vs Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse (20:00 CEST)

High-flying Bourg (2-0) will look to stay perfect against a Reyer team (1-1) aiming for an immediate response to last week’s narrow loss at Cedevita. It should be a high-scoring game between the fifth (88.5 ppg.) and second (92 ppg.) most effective offenses in the competition. Bourg’s 100% start has been a collective effort, with seven different players averaging double digits PIR led by the versatile Adrian Nelson (14.5 ppg., 4.5 rpg., 19.5 average PIR). Reyer has been great from long-range, ranking second in the EuroCup for three-point shooting accuracy (43.5%) partly thanks to Kyle Wiltjer, who went 4-of-8 from deep in his first appearance of the season last week.

2024-25 BKT EuroCup | Round 3 Head-to-Head: Ennis vs. Castaneda

## Wednesday, October 9

### U-BT Cluj-Napoca vs Valencia Basket (18:00 CEST)

Wednesday’s opening tip-off will see winless Cluj (0-2) face the tough assignment of stopping the Valencia (2-0) juggernaut. The ambitious Spanish team flexed its offensive muscles by blasting 105 points past Veolia Towers Hamburg last week, and has new signing Matt Costello in great form with 19.5 points per game. Valencia leads the EuroCup in assists, with another fresh face, Jean Montero, averaging 9.0 helpers in his first two games. Cluj will need another big game from triple-double threat Zavier Simpson, who averages 14.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 8.0 assists, but must take more care of the ball after committing 16.5 turnovers per night so far – second-worst in the competition.

### Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem vs Veolia Towers Hamburg (19:00 CEST)

Hapoel Jerusalem (1-1) will look to build on last week’s convincing win at Lietkabelis as it welcomes winless Hamburg (0-2). Jerusalem guard Jared Harper has averaged 25.0 points through the first two games and will be licking his lips at the prospect of facing a Hamburg defense which has allowed a competition-high 102.5 points per game. Hamburg competed well with Valencia for the first three quarters of last week’s loss before running out of steam, so coach Benka Barloschky will be looking for a full 40 minutes from his players – and another big performance from guard Billy Ivey, who scored 19 points in Round 2.

### Trefl Sopot vs Joventut Badalona (19:00 CEST)

Two teams aiming to bounce back from defeat, go head to head as Trefl (0-2) welcomes Joventut (1-1). The Polish team will have to find a way of containing veteran big man Ante Tomic, who averages 17.5 points and 8.5 points per night. Trefl will rely on the leadership of guard Tarik Phillip, who has posted impressive numbers of 12.5 points, 8.5 boards and 6.0 assists in the opening two games. The host will also look to disrupt Joventut’s rhythm through the active defense of Robert McGowens, who averages 2.5 steals per night – the best effort in a team average of 10.5 per game, second-best in the EuroCup.

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

Trento (1-1) is seeking a second straight home win as it welcomes a Buducnost team (0-2) desperate to record its first victory of the season. The Italian team overcame Trefl last week in large part thanks to the scoring power of Jordan Ford, who netted 20 points on 7-of-12 field goal shooting. The distribution of Anthony Lamb (5.5 assists per game) will also be important against Buducnost which has so far been let down defensively by allowing 91.5 points per game, second-most in the competition. If that figure improves, the all-round skills of Rasheed Sulaimon (14.5 ppg., 6.5 rpg. and 5.0 apg.) could be enough to secure a much-needed road triumph.

### 

2024-25 BKT EuroCup | Round 3 Head-to-Head: Ford vs. Sulaimon

### Dreamland Gran Canaria vs Bahcesehir College Istanbul (21:00 CEST)

A big battle concludes the week’s action as either Gran Canaria (2-0) or Bahcesehir (2-0) will lose its perfect record. The Turkish team will look to control the game through its defense after allowing only 67.5 points in its first two games, second-best in the league. The physicality of center Tai Odiase (13.0 ppg.,  6.0 rpg.) will also be needed to lock up Gran Canaria, a team with many options inside the paint including George Conditt IV, who had 8 points and 7 boards in last week’s win over Buducnost. Another duel to watch is the battle for backcourt control between Andrew Albicy (8.0 ppg., 4.0 apg.) and Jaleen Smith (9.5 ppg. and 6.0 apg.).

2024-25 BKT EuroCup | Round 3 Head-to-Head: Homesley vs. Smith

There are a pair of games between undefeated teams, and one between two winless sides.

The Italian team is looking for a first win of the season after succumbing to Monaco in Round 1, and coach Ettore Messina will demand better interior defense after allowing the Roca Team to convert 26 two-point shots on 40 attempts (65%). Offensively, Milan will hope for another strong showing from new signing [Armoni Brooks](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/armoni-brooks/013384/) (16 points in Round 1) and more production from star forward [Nikola Mirotic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nikola-mirotic/000796/) (9 points), while [Josh Nebo is out](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/josh-nebo-olimpia-milano-to-be-reevaluated-in-two-weeks/) through injury. For Paris, 16 points from backcourt star [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) wasn’t enough to overcome Zvezda last week, and backcourt teammate [Maodo Lo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/maodo-lo/007032/) will look for a big night against his old team.

Game Videos

### EA7 Emporio Armani Milan

**Streaks**

 

Shavon Shields has scored at least 10 points in eight straight games. 

Shields has at least 1 steal in 13 straight games.

Shields needs 74 points to reach 2,000 for his career.

Nikola Mirotic has scored 10 or more points in eight of his last nine games.

Mirotic has made at least 1 three-point shots in nine straight and 12 of his last 13 games.

Zach LeDay has had at least 1 steal in seven of his last eight games.

LeDay has scored at least 11 points and had a PIR of 12 or more in five of his last six games.

LeDay has made at least 1 three-pointer in five of his last six games.

LeDay has made 16 consecutive free throws.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Nikola Mirotic ranks seventh all-time with 837 free throws made. Juan Carlos Navarro is sixth with 853. 

Mirotic is ranked seventh all-time with 4,193 index rating points. Nick Calathes of AS Monaco is sixth with 4,240 and counting.

Josh Nebo ranks 12th all-time in two-point accuracy at 65.7%.

Nebo needs 24 points to reach 1,000 for his career.

### Paris Basketball

**Streaks**

 

Daulton Hommes has made at least 1 three-point shot in six of his last seven games.

Kevarrius Hayes has pulled down 5 or more rebounds in six of his last seven games. 

Hayes has had a PIR of at least 12 in six of his last seven games.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Maodo Lo needs 41 points to reach 2,000 for his career.

Kevarrius Hayes needs 42 points to reach 500 for his career.

 

Game News

Paris faces its first ever EuroLeague road game with a trip to Milan.

Game Facts: Milan vs. Paris

\- This is the first official meeting between Milan and Paris.

\- Paris guard Maodo Lo spent last season with Milan

\- Maodo Lo was a teammate of Milan guard Fabien Causeur at Brose Bamberg during the 2016-17 season. They won the German League and Cup double together.

\- Lo grabbed a career-high 6 rebounds playing for Brose Bamberg against Milan in November 2017.

Paris faces its first ever EuroLeague road game with a trip to Milan. 

Game Notes: Milan vs. Paris

The Spanish side will look for better offensive production after only scoring 67 points in last week’s loss at Zalgiris, where sharpshooters [Alex Abrines](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/alex-abrines/003478/) and [Jabari Parker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jabari-parker/012745/) combined for just 2 of their 11 three-point attempts. Barca will give home debuts to young guard [Juan Nunez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/juan-nunez/010106/) and dynamic big man [Chimezie Metu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/chimezie-metu/013379/), who faces a good battle for supremacy at the rim with [Khalifa Koumadje](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/khalifa-koumadje/010791/) after the ALBA center claimed 13 rebounds in the opening round loss to Panathinaikos. ALBA’s playmaking duties will be led by [Martin Hermannsson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/martin-hermannsson/008780/), who started the season strongly with 12 points and 9 assists and will now look to outshine [Tomas Satoransky](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tomas-satoransky/002939/) and [Nico Laprovittola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolas-laprovittola/006435/).

### FC Barcelona

**Streaks**

 

Nicolas Laprovittola has made at least 1 three-point shot in 16 straight games.

Alex Abrines has made at least 1 three-point shot in 10 straight games.

Jabari Parker has scored in double figures and made at least 1 three-point shot in five of his last six games.

Kevin Punter has scored at least 11 points and had a PIR of 11 or more in six straight games.

Punter has made 16 consecutive free throws. He holds the longest streak in EuroLeague history with 69 consecutive free throws made.

Youssoupha Fall has pulled down 5 or more rebounds in five straight games.

Fall has had a PIR of 12 or more in five of his last six games.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Tomas Satoransky ranks third all-time with a 2.7-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio.

Jan Vesely is the all-time leader in two-pointers made with 1,489.

Vesely ranks third all-time with 631 offensive rebounds. Felipe Reyes is second with 705.

Vesely ranks fourth all-time with 1,696 rebounds. Felipe Reyes is third with 1,799.

Vesely ranks eighth all-time with 205 blocks. Georgios Papagiannis of AS Monaco is seventh with 214 and counting.

Vesely is sixth all-time with 3,838 points scored. Sergio Llull of Real Madrid is fifth with 3,954 and counting.

Vesely ranks second all-time with 4,852 index rating points. Nando De Colo of LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne is the all-time leader with 5,059 and counting.

Vesely ranks fourth all-time with 342 steals. Rudy Fernandez is third with 367 steals.

Vesely ranks eighth all-time with 767 free throws made. Nikola Mirotic of EA7 Emporio Armani Milan is seventh with 837 and counting.

Kevin Punter ranks 12th all-time in free-throw accuracy at 89.5%.

Youssoupha Fall ranks 14th all-time in two-point accuracy at 64.7%.

### ALBA Berlin

**Streaks**

 

Jonas Mattisseck has made 15 consecutive free throws dating back to Round 4 of the 2021-22 season.

Matt Thomas has made at least 1 three-pointer in 14 straight games.

Thomas has made multiple three-pointers in five straight and nine of his last 10 games.

Thomas has scored at least 10 points in six of his last seven games.

Ziga Samar has least 1 steal in five straight games.

Khalifa Koumadje has pulled down 5 or more rebounds in six of his last seven games.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Khalifa Koumadje ranks sixth all-time in two-point accuracy at 67.6%.

 

Two teams chasing a first win meet at Palau Blaugrana as Barcelona welcomes ALBA.

Game Facts: Barcelona vs. ALBA

stanbul, a city that spans two continents, sets the stage for one of basketball's most heated rivalries: Anadolu Efes vs Fenerbahçe. The city's split between Europe and Asia reflects the divide in its basketball fans—those on the calm Asian side often supporting Fenerbahçe, while the fast-paced European side cheers for Efes. As the episode unfolds, we journey through Istanbul’s vibrant streets and rich history, from the iconic Blue Mosque to local traditions, showing how deeply this rivalry is woven into the fabric of the city. Featuring stories from players and fans, this is a portrait of a city where basketball is more than just a game—it's part of its identity.

RIVALRIES | Episode 1: Istanbul - Efes and Fenerbahce: Two Teams, One City | Documentary Series

Istanbul, a city that spans two continents, sets the stage for one of basketball's most heated rivalries: Anadolu Efes vs Fenerbahçe. The city's split between Europe and Asia reflects the divide in its basketball fans—those on the calm Asian side often supporting Fenerbahçe, while the fast-paced European side cheers for Efes. As the episode unfolds, we journey through Istanbul’s vibrant streets and rich history, from the iconic Blue Mosque to local traditions, showing how deeply this rivalry is woven into the fabric of the city. Featuring stories from players and fans, this is a portrait of a city where basketball is more than just a game—it's part of its identity.

The 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season is underway! Round 2 is a very strategic one in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge, as there are three turns of games. Yes, that's right, two games are played on Wednesday, four more on Thursday and the remaining three on Monday to wrap things up. That gives you plenty of choices, especially choosing a team captain.

Fantasy Challenge tips, Round 2: strategy is everything!

The 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season is underway! Round 2 is a very strategic one in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge as there are three turns of games. 

Yes, that's right: two games are played on Wednesday, four more on Thursday and the remaining three on Friday to wrap things up. That gives you plenty of choices, especially when it comes to choosing a team captain.

Unless you trust someone in particular to get a good score, at your own risk, try to have one good player per turn, just in case. That's why I am recommending players in all three turns before Round 2. 

Martin Hermannsson, Jasiel Rivero, T.J. Shorts, Tadas Sedekerskis and Dan Oturu are featured in this week's article.

EuroLeague Fantasy tips: Round 2

### Martin Hermannsson, ALBA Berlin (8.3 credits)

Injury-free and experienced, [Martin Hermannsson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/martin-hermannsson/008780/) is seeing extended playing time due to ALBA's many backcourt injuries. He has made the most out of it, too, getting a PIR of 18 against Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens in Round 1, and following that up with another solid performance in the German League this weekend: 16 points, 8 assists and a PIR of 22. All for less than 9.0 credits. Extremely recommended.

### Jasiel Rivero, Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (10.7 credits)

Maccabi comes off a good win and gets to play against AS Monaco. Everyone has an eye on Tamir Blatt, who will be the most-bought player in Round 2. [Jasiel Rivero](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/jasiel-rivero/011214/) can be a steal because he is seeing more playing time and comes off a really solid game in Round 1 in which he did a little bit of everything: 11 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 blocks. A really solid choice at center who is playing on Wednesday.

<center>
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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/C_0MHs7tLKz/?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 Jasiel Rivero Fernandez (@jasielriverofernandez)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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### Dan Oturu, Anadolu Efes Istanbul (10.8 credits)

Yes, [Dan Oturu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dan-oturu/012788/) came off the bench in Round 1 and Efes plays a Turkish derby against Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul in Round 2. Oturu has been in great shape and proved that right away. In a low-scoring game against Virtus, Oturu had 14 points and 9 rebounds in almost 26 minutes. He has had a really strong pre-season and can play alongside Vincent Poirier, becoming a key player in Efes's frontcourt.

### Tadas Sedekerskis, Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (13.1 credits)

Another Wednesday choice as team captain to give you the edge right away, early in Round 1. Just as last season, [Tadas Sedekerskis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tadas-sedekerskis/007230/) has started this campaign in excellent shape. He had 14 points, 6 rebounds and a PIR of 21 in his team's EuroLeague opener against Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, and also had a solid game in the Spanish League this weekend: 14 points, 7 rebounds and a PIR of 23. What can go wrong with Tadas?

<center>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DAqaPyssZVj/?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/DAqaPyssZVj/?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/DAqaPyssZVj/?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 TADAS SEDEKERSKIS (@tsedekerskis)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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### TJ Shorts, Paris Basketball (13.3 credits)

You need a reliable player on Friday in case everything goes wrong. [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) is perfect as Paris plays on Friday and he rarely has bad games. Last season, he had a PIR of 20 or higher in all EuroCup playoff games, and just two single-digit PIR games all season. I hear you, it was the EuroCup, but Shorts has the same role in the EuroLeague and had a PIR of 21 in Round 1. He has great fantasy value.

This week, Javi Gancedo is back in his traditional role, suggesting fantasy players you should choose in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge

Fantasy Challenge tips, Round 2: Strategy is everything!

\- Barcelona has won all eight home games against ALBA this century and in each of the last seven, it won by a double-digit margin, including a 93-77 win last February. In that game, Willy Hernangomez had a career-high PIR of 27.

\- Before ALBA's 74-70 win in Berlin in Round 15 last season, Barcelona had won nine straight games against ALBA, whose only previous win came in January 2015.

\- Barcelona set a club record for blocks with 9 against ALBA Berlin on February 12, 2003.

\- Barcelona's single-game record for blocks by a player is 5, which Anderson Varejao set against ALBA Berlin on February 12, 2003.

\- Barcelona's Justin Anderson and ALBA's Martin Hermannsson were briefly teammates last season at Valencia Basket.

\- Hermannsson played under Barcelona head coach Joan Penarroya at Valencia Basket during the 2021-22 season.

\- ALBA big man Trevion Williams and Barcelona point guard Juan Nunez were teammates at ratiopharm Ulm last season.

\- ALBA's Malte Delow posted his career highs in PIR (18) and steals (5) in a road loss against Barcelona last February.

\- In a home win over ALBA in March 2021, Alex Abrines set his career high with 4 steals.

Two teams chasing a first win meet at Palau Blaugrana as Barcelona welcomes ALBA. 

Game Notes: Barcelona vs. ALBA

The visiting team will hope that former Olympiacos forward [Ignas Bradzeikis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ignas-brazdeikis/011983/) (17 points and 5 rebounds against Barca) will return to haunt his old team. [Sylvain Francisco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sylvain-francisco/007975/) also excelled in the Round 1 win with 19 points, but he faces a tough task in overcoming the Reds’ notoriously tough defense led by [Thomas Walkup](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/thomas-walkup/008855/). Olympiacos is gunning for a first win of the season after being downed by Fenerbahce last week, and needs to improve its long-range shooting after making only 4 of its 20 three-point attempts. [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/) is sure to receive a big welcome in his first home game back with the Reds.

### Olympiacos Piraeus

**Streaks**

 

Sasha Vezenkov has scored in double figures and had double-digit PIRs in 10 of his last 11 games.

Thomas Walkup has had at least 1 steal in 10 of his last 11 games. 

Shaquielle McKissic has had at least 1 steal in nine of his last 10 games.

McKissic has made at least 1 three-pointer in seven straight games.

Nigel Williams-Goss has had at least 1 steal in four of his last five games.

Keenan Evans has scored at least 10 points in 10 straight and 21 of his last 22 games.

Evans has posted a double-digit PIR in nine of his last 10 games.

Evans has made at least 1 three-pointer in 17 straight games.

Evans has made 21 consecutive free throws.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Kostas Papanikolaou is second to Nick Calathes (311) of AS Monaco in games started with 310.

Papanikolaou ranks ninth place all-time in steals with 303. Sergio Rodriguez is eighth with 309.

Moustapha Fall ranks second all-time in two-point accuracy at 72.7%.

Thomas Walkup ranks 17th all-time with a 2.5-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio.

Alec Peters ranks 13th all-time in free-throw shooting at 89.3%.

Peters ranks fifth all-time in three-point accuracy at 45.7%.

Nikola Milutinov is ranked seventh all-time in offensive rebounds with 577. Othello Hunter is sixth with 611.

Walkup is ranked 15th all-time in assists with 908. Daniel Hackett of Virtus Segafredo Bologna is 14th with 910 assists and counting.

Luca Vildoza needs 3 assists to reach 500 for his career.

### Zalgiris Kaunas

**Streaks**

 

Edgaras Ulanovas has had at least 1 steal in nine of his last 10 games. 

Bryant Dunson has blocked at least 1 shot in eight of his last nine games.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Bryant Dunston ranks second all-time with 348 blocked shots. Walter Tavares of Real Madrid is the all-time leader with 426 and counting.

Dunston ranks ninth all-time with 1,484 rebounds. Nicolo Melli of Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul is eighth with 1,499 and counting.

Dunston ranks fourth place all-time with 615 career offensive rebounds. Jan Vesely of FC Barcelona ranks third with 631 and counting.

Dunston ranks ninth all-time with 996 two-pointers made. Tibor Pleiss is eighth with 1,006 two-point makes.

Edgaras Ulanovas ranks fourth all-time with 256 games started. Paulius Jankunas is third with 283 starts.

Lukas Lukavicius needs 16 points to reach 2,000 for his career.

After already claiming one heavyweight scalp by overcoming Barcelona last week, Zalgiris is looking to build more momentum with a trip to Piraeus. 

Game Facts: Olympiacos vs. Zalgiris

\- Olympiacos has won six straight against Zalgiris and leads 19-13 in their meetings this century. In their last game, the Reds beat Zalgiris in Kaunas 76-95 with Thomas Walkup scoring a career-high 22 points.

\- Zalgiris's last win over Olympiacos was an 81-79 decision in January 2021 in Kaunas when Thomas Walkup, now with Olympiacos, scored with 1 second remaining to cap a 9-0 run in the last 2 minutes and win the game for Zalgiris.

\- Zalgiris ousted Olympiacos from the 2018 EuroLeague Playoffs with a 3-1 series win without the home-court advantage.

\- Zalgiris and Olympiacos faced each other in the 1999 Final Four in Munich, Germany. It was the first-ever official clash between these two sides. Zalgiris downed Olympiacos 87-71 in the semifinals behind 19 points from Anthony Bowie and went on to lift its first – and to date only – EuroLeague trophy.

\- When Olympiacos beat Zalgiris 90-80 in October 2022, the win came behind 23 points plus a career-high 14 rebounds from Sasha Vezenkov, who earned MVP of the Round honor for that performance.

\- Zalgiris forward Edgaras Ulanovas earned MVP of the Round honors against Olympiacos in Game 4 of the 2018 EuroLeague Playoffs. He had 20 points and 9 rebounds for a performance index rating of 27.

\- Zalgiris big man Bryant Dunston played two seasons at Olympiacos, from 2013 to 2015, and in both seasons was chosen the EuroLeague Best Defender. He played under head coach Georgios Bartzokas.

\- Dunston tied his career-high in offensive rebounds with 8 playing for Anadolu Efes Istanbul against Olympiacos in Game 4 of the 2017 EuroLeague Playoffs, which Olympiacos won in Istanbul 62-74.

\- Olympiacos guard Naz Mitrou-Long moved from Zalgiris to Olympiacos ahead of Round 10 last season.

\- Mitrou-Long had his career highs in points (19) and PIR (16) playing for EA7 Emporio Armani Milan against Zalgiris in November 2022.

\- Zalgiris forward Ignas Brazdeikis spent last season with Olympiacos and helped the team reach the 2024 Final Four.

\- Injured guard Keenan Evans joined Olympiacos this summer after spending the last two seasons with Zalgiris.

\- Thomas Walkup joined Olympiacos from Zalgiris in the summer of 2021. He spent three years in Kaunas, never missing a EuroLeague game and appearing in all 96 games Zalgiris played over that span.

\- Olympiacos forward Kostas Papanikolaou played under current Zalgiris head coach Andrea Trinchieri on the Greek national team at EuroBasket 2013.

\- Zalgiris guard Sylvain Francisco has been a teammate of Olympiacos center Moustapha Fall on the French national team.

\- Olympiacos center Moustapha Fall posted his career-high in offensive rebounds with 7 playing for LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne against Zalgiris in October 2020.

\- Fall dished a career-high 7 assists against Zalgiris in March 2023.

\- In the 2022-23 season, Olympiacos guard Luca Vildoza had a career-high 27 points playing for Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade in a home game against Zalgiris and tied a career-best with 5 steals in their game in Kaunas.

\- Vildoza had a career-high 5 steals playing for Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz against Zalgiris in January 2021.

Game Notes: Olympiacos vs. Zalgiris

The Spanish powerhouse was stunned by a fourth quarter collapse against Bayern, and coach Chus Mateo will be urging his players to show greater defensive consistency against Zeljko Obradovic’s new-look roster. [Facundo Campazzo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/facundo-campazzo/005928/) started the season in his usual whirlwind fashion with 19 points and 9 assists, and he faces a good matchup in Partizan’s EuroLeague newcomer [Carlik Jones](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carlik-jones/013369/) (6 assists in Round 1’s defeat at Baskonia). The battle in the paint will be fiercely contested as Real giants [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) and [Serge Ibaka](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/serge-ibaka/003583/) go up against visiting duo [Brandon Davies](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/brandon-davies/007870/) and [Tyrique Jones](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tyrique-jones/011981/), who combined for 42 points in the loss in Vitoria.

### Real Madrid

**Streaks**

 

Facundo Campazzo has a PIR of at least 10 in 10 straight games.

Campazzo has had at least 1 steal in eight of his last nine games.

Mario Hezonja has made at least 1 triple in 11 straight games.

Hezonja has had at least 1 steal in seven of his last eight games.

Walter Tavares has had at least 1 block in six straight games.

Tavares has had a double-digit PIR in six of his last seven games.

Dzanan Musa has made at least 1 triple in eight of his last nine games.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Walter Tavares blocked 88 shots in the 2022-23 season to set the all-time single-season record.

Tavares is the competition's all-time leader in blocks with 426.

Tavares is fifth all-time in two-point accuracy at 67.8%.

Tavares ranks fifth all-time with 1,623 rebounds. Jan Vesely of FC Barcelona is fourth with 1,696 rebounds and counting.

Tavares is ranked fifth all-time with 612 offensive rebounds. Bryan Dunton of Zalgiris Kaunas is fourth with 615 and counting.

Sergio Llull is the all-time leader in three-point shots made with 633.

Llull ranks fifth all-time in scoring with 3,954 points. Juan Carlos Navarro is fourth with 4,152.

Llull is sixth all-time with 1,395 assists. Milos Teodosic of Crvena Zvezda is fifth with 1,439 and counting.

Llull ranks 11th all-time with 701 free throws made. Shane Larkin of Anadolu Efes Istanbul is 10th with 746 and counting.

Llull ranks fifth all-time with a 2.7-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio.

Facundo Campazzo ranks 12th all-time with a 2.5-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio. 

Dzanan Musa made 178 free throws during the 2022-23 season to set a single-season EuroLeague record.

Llull has made 408 EuroLeague appearances, second all-time behind only Kyle Hines with 425.

### Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade

**Streaks**

 

Iffe Lundberg has scored 10 or more points in six of his last seven games.

Sterling Brown has made at least 1 three-point shot in 29 of his 30 EuroLeague games played.

Brown has made 21 consecutive free throws.

Vanja Marinkovic has made at least 1 three-point shot in eight straight and 16 of his last 17 games.

Marinkovic has made 10 consecutive free throws.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Iffe Lundberg needs 40 points to reach 1,000 for his career.

Brandon Davies needs 4 blocks to reach 100 for his career.

Davies needs 11 steals to reach 200 for his career.

Two teams aiming to respond to opening week losses meet as Real hosts Partizan.

Game Facts: Madrid vs. Partizan

\- Real won both games against Partizan last season. In their last game, Real's 76-88 win in Belgrade, Mario Hezonja scored 25 points and earned co-MVP honors with a 33 PIR.

\- In the 2023 playoffs, Real ousted Partizan 3-2 in a memorable series. It is the only EuroLeague playoff series that has ever featured road wins in each of the first four games.

\- In a deciding Game 5, Partizan led by as many as 18 points in the third quarter before *Los Blancos* rallied for a 98-94 victory. For Partizan, Kevin Punter, now with Barcelona, made a career-high 7 three-pointers, which tied a club record.

\- Real registered a 78-85 victory in Game 4 behind 15 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 steals from Walter Tavares, who had a PIR of 30 and earned MVP of the Round honors.

\- Also in Game 4, Real's Dzanan Musa collected a career-high 8 rebounds.

\- Real pulled out an 80-82 win in Game 3 as Walter Tavares tied his career high with 26 points, making a career-best 11 two-point shots and adding 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 blocks. His career-best PIR of 41 tied for the second-highest total in modern playoff history.

\- Also in Game 3, Real forward Mario Hezonja set a career-high with 14 rebounds.

\- In that playoff series, Partizan became only the second team in playoff history to win Games 1 and 2 on the road.  Prior to those two Partizan wins in Madrid, Real was 9-0 at home against Partizan this century and 11-0 all-time dating back to 1979.

\- It was an 80-95 Partizan win in Game 2, which was stopped with 1:40 to go in the fourth quarter after an on-court altercation that left both teams without the required minimum of two players each to finish the game.

\- In Game 1 of the 2023 playoffs, Real's Gabriel Deck tied his career high in PIR with 33.

\- In their regular-season game in Madrid during the 2022-23 season, Real beat Partizan 105-97. In that game, Partizan took the first quarter 32-40. The 72 combined points set a record for the most points in a first quarter and the second most in any quarter of a EuroLeague game.

\- Partizan head coach Zeljko Obradovic led Real Madrid to the EuroLeague championship in the 1994-95 season. That was Real’s eighth continental crown and the third as head coach for Obradovic. He was Real Madrid's head coach for three seasons, from 1994 to 1997.

\- Partizan's Mario Nakic grew up with Real Madrid. Nakic was there from 2014 to 2020, made his EuroLeague debut with Real and also led U18 Real to the 2019 ANGT championship as the tournament MVP.

\- Partizan youngster Mitar Bosnjakovic spent the last two seasons with Real and helped the U18 team to the ANGT championship last season in Berlin.

\- Partizan's Vanja Marinkovic and Real's Alberto Abalde were teammates at Valencia Basket during the 2019-20 season.

\- Last season in Madrid, Partizan center Balsa Koprivica posted a career-best PIR of 15 in a 91-75 loss.

\- Partizan center Brandon Davies blocked a career-high 4 shots for FC Barcelona against Real in October 2020.

\- Davies set his career-high in scoring with 27 points playing for Zalgiris Kaunas against Real in April 2019.

\- Real's Sergio Llull made a career-high 7 two-point shots against Partizan in October 2008.

Two teams aiming to respond to opening week losses meet as Real hosts Partizan. 

Game Notes: Madrid vs. Partizan

But that shouldn’t faze a Bayern team which showed great resolve to claim a prestigious win over Real Madrid last week, with new signings [Shabazz Napier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shabazz-napier/011224/) and [Johannes Voigtmann](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/johannes-voigtmann/007201/) excelling. Panathinaikos eased to victory at ALBA Berlin to start the season in style, and the home team’s outstanding selection of guards – including home debutant [Lorenzo Brown](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/lorenzo-brown/009622/) – will look to control the tempo and limit the effectiveness of Napier and [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/). Another key confrontation will be between a pair of sweet shooting forwards, [Konstantinos Mitoglou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/konstantinos-mitoglou/007866/) and [Vladimir Lucic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vladimir-lucic/001288/).

### Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens

**Streaks**

 

Mathias Lessort has scored at least 10 points in seven of his last eight games. 

Lessort has pulled down at least 5 rebounds in eight straight and 22 of his last 23 games.

Lessort has had a PIR of 10 or more in 10 straight games.

Kendrick Nunn has scored at least 10 points in seven straight and 22 of his last 23 games.

Nunn has made at least 1 three-point shot in 15 of his last 16 games.

Nunn has made multiple three-point shots in six of his last seven games.

Nunn has had a double-digit PIR in 12 of his last 13 games.

Nunn has made 20 consecutive free throws.

Lorenzo Brown has scored at least 10 points in seven of his last eight games.

Brown has had a PIR of 14 or more in six of his last seven games.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Kostas Sloukas ranks third all-time with 1,705 assists. Sergio Rodriguez is second with 1,874.

Sloukas is in fifth place all-time with 910 free throws made. Felipe Reyes is fourth with 967.

Sloukas is ranked eighth all-time with 3,707 career points. Sergio Rodriguez is seventh with 3,772.

Sloukas is ranked fourth all-time with 4,603 index rating points. Mike James of AS Monaco is third with 4,734 and counting.

Sloukas ranks 17th all-time in free-throw accuracy at 88.7%.

Marius Grigonis ranks seventh all-time in free-throw accuracy at 90.5%.

Grigonis ranks 19th all-time in three-point accuracy at 43.1%.

Jerian Grant ranks fourth all-time with a 2.7-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio.

The next time he plays, Cedi Osman will make his 100th EuroLeague appearance.

### FC Bayern Munich

**Streaks**

 

Andreas Obst has made at least 1 three-point shot in 27 of his last 28 games.

Shabazz Napier has made at least 1 three-pointer in eight straight games.

 

**Records/Milestones**

 

Niels Giffey needs 12 points to reach 1,000 for his career.

Johannes Voigtmann needs 24 points to reach 2,000 for his career.

Carsen Edwards ranks 11th all-time in free-throw accuracy at 89.5%.

A pair of opening week winners go head-to-head as Panathinaikos welcomes Bayern. It will be the Greens’ first home game since lifting the EuroLeague title in May, so an electric atmosphere is guaranteed.

Game Facts: Panathinaikos vs. Bayern

\- The home team has won 12 of the 14 games these teams have played against one another. Panathinaikos is 7-0 at home against Bayern.

\- Panathinaikos registered two 7-point wins against Bayern last season, including a 75-82 decision in Munich in their last meeting. That was the first win by a road team in this series after eight consecutive wins by home teams.

\- Panathinaikos center Mathias Lessort spent the 2019-20 season with Bayern.

\- Bayern playmaker Yam Madar was a teammate of the Panathinaikos duo of Mathias Lessort and Ioannis Papapetrou at Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade during the 2022-23 season. Together they helped Partizan reach the EuroLeague Playoffs and win the Adriatic League.

\- Panathinaikos guard Marius Grigonis was a teammate of Bayern's Niels Giffey at ALBA Berlin during the 2017-18 season.

\- Panathinaikos guard Marius Grigonis and Bayern forward Johannes Voigtmann were teammates at CSKA Moscow during the 2021-22 season.

\- Panathinaikos big man Kostas Antetokounmpo and Bayern's Devin Booker and Carsen Edwards were teammates at Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul during the 2022-23 season.

\- Last season in Munich, Bayern guard Nick Weiler-Babb made a career-best 5 three-pointers in a home loss against Panathinaikos.

\- Last season in Athens, Devin Booker had a career-high 6 offensive rebounds in a loss against Panathinaikos.

\- Booker recorded a career-high 4 blocks playing for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul against Panathinaikos in November 2022.

\- Bayern guard Carsen Edwards pulled down a career-best 6 rebounds playing for Fenerbahce against Panathinaikos in November 2022.

\- Bayern's Andreas Obst dished a career-high 6 assists in an 86-76 road loss against Panathinaikos in March of last season.

\- Panathinaikos guard Lorenzo Brown set his career highs in points (36), two-pointers made (11), free throws made (11) and PIR (43) playing for Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv against Bayern in a 98-89 loss in December 2022.

\- Yam Madar swiped a career-high 3 steals playing for Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade against Panathinaikos in November 2022.

\- Panathinaikos point guard Kostas Sloukas set his career-high with 3 blocked shots playing for Olympiacos Piraeus against Bayern in October 2013.

A pair of opening week winners go head-to-head as Panathinaikos welcomes Bayern. It will be the Greens’ first home game since lifting the EuroLeague title in May, so an electric atmosphere is guaranteed. 