Roll Call

NINERS Chemnitz forward Yordan Minchev, playing in his rookie EuroCup season, sat down with Javier Gancedo to reflect on his and his team's start to the campaign.

Yordan Minchev, Chemnitz: 'I have been dreaming of this moment'

[NINERS Chemnitz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/niners-chemnitz/nin/) made history by claiming its first-ever BKT EuroCup victory in its home opener last week, [defeating Lietkabelis Panevezys 86–67](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/chemnitz-routs-lietkabelis-86-67-to-earn-maiden-eurocup-win/). The night had it all: a dominant 53–29 first half, an electrifying crowd, and the presence of Karli, the team’s mascot inspired by philosopher Karl Marx. One of Chemnitz’s new faces this season is forward [Yordan Minchev](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/yordan-minchev/007423/), the first Bulgarian-born player to compete in the EuroCup in over a decade.

Minchev, who previously played in Bulgaria, Turkiye, Serbia, North Macedonia, Hungary, Romania, and Belgium, is off to a strong start in his EuroCup debut – averaging 8.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists with a PIR of 18.5 through two games. He sat down with Euroleague.net's Javier Gancedo to discuss his long journey, Chemnitz’s rising basketball culture, and what it means to finally reach this level.

**Q: Hello, Yordan. First things first, congratulations on beating Lietkabelis. It was Chemnitz’s first EuroCup win, too. How great is it to be part of something historic?**<br>
"Thanks! Yes, as you said, it's historic. It was the first win in a tournament like this and it felt amazing, especially in front of our home crowd. People were really happy. I believe the whole organization was very happy. I was very happy, too! It’s just the beginning – I believe it's the first of many EuroCup wins this season."

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**Q: And the fans were crazy, too. You could tell this wasn’t just any game** – **that atmosphere was something you don’t see every day.**<br>
"Yes, they were so ready for this game. They prepared everything in the stands. The support they give us and all the effort they put in before every game is unbelievable. It's amazing."

**Q: Can you elaborate on that a bit?**<br>
"You don't see that kind of preparation often, especially at basketball games. It’s more common in football, where fans arrive early, set up choreographies and banners. But here, people do the same for us, and I’m really happy to witness it with my own eyes, in my own life, before every game."

**Q: Let’s go back to your first game, that overtime loss to Panionios. Chemnitz twice had the game in its hands , missing a shot at the end of regulation and then being up by three in the final seconds. Did that feel like a wake-up call?**<br>
"I believe it was a slap in the face. It showed us that we have to stay focused the entire game, no matter the score. Also, for some of us, it was our first EuroCup game, so there were nerves. The atmosphere in Greece was incredible – everyone saw the kind of support their team had. It was definitely a result we didn’t want, but we learned from it. Since then, we've won three straight, and the team keeps improving."

**Q: Like you said, this is your first EuroCup season. How exciting is it to finally get this opportunity?**<br>
"Yeah, man, it feels amazing. I’m really grateful because I’ve been dreaming about this moment for the last five or six years. I believed in myself. I knew I belonged here, in a EuroCup-level team. And it finally happened. All the hard work paid off. Coach Pastore saw that and gave me a chance to show my talent and my quality as a player. I'm thankful for this opportunity, and I’m enjoying every day here."

**Q: Most EuroCup fans haven’t seen you play before. How would you describe yourself as a player?**<br>
"I’m a player who brings a lot of energy. I try to be a key part of the team on defense – that's always my focus first. From there, I transfer that energy into offense. Rebounding is probably the best part of my game. I love grabbing the ball off the rim and pushing it in transition. I’m unselfish, I like to get my teammates involved, and I always try to create for others."

Yordan Minchev is in his first BKT EuroCup season with NINERS Chemnitz

2025-26 Rounds 1-2 highlights: Yordan Minchev, Chemnitz

**Q: Bulgaria has a strong EuroCup tradition, but you're the first Bulgarian-born player in the competition since Hristo Nikolov in 2014–15. Last year, Hapoel played its EuroCup games in Samokov. Do you think Bulgarian fans are paying more attention to the EuroCup now?**<br>
"We’re a small basketball community in Bulgaria. Basketball isn’t as popular as it is in other European countries – football always comes first. But the people who love basketball were very excited when Hapoel came to play in Bulgaria. Now they’re even hosting EuroLeague games in Sofia. Unfortunately, the project that Lukoil Academic started a while back didn’t work out. The people behind it eventually gave up and stopped supporting any basketball team."

**Q: Bulgarian basketball has a superstar in Sasha Vezenkov. His father, Sasho Vezenkov, was a legend and president of Lukoil. What’s your relationship with Sasha like? Do you follow his career?**<br>
"Yeah, we have a pretty good relationship. We talk during the season. I ask him for advice and I watch almost all of his games – maybe four out of five. I’m really happy for him. It’s always challenging and motivating when we’re together with the national team, although most of the time his club doesn’t allow him to play. But whenever he’s available, he’s ready to help. I really look up to Sasha. I’m proud he’s Bulgarian. Everywhere I go, I tell people, “You know Sasha? He’s my friend – we play together on the national team.” What he does is incredible. It looks simple, but it always works."

**Q: You’ve played in seven different countries before finally getting your EuroCup shot. Does that journey make this moment even sweeter?**<br>
"Definitely. When I look back, it’s been a long road – a lot of countries, a lot of teams. But a lot of it was because of injuries. I had to come back home to finish seasons. Sometimes I couldn’t find a team during the summer, so I just had to accept whatever came. But yes, it makes this even sweeter. Through everything, I stayed positive, I kept working, I kept improving – and it paid off in the end."

**Q: Your next game is against Besiktas in Istanbul — one of the toughest road games in the regular season. How big of a test is that for Chemnitz?**<br>
"Every EuroCup game is a big test – all teams play differently, with different styles and principles. We’ll try to adjust to their game, but the main focus is on what we want to do on the court. It’s going to be tough – they’ve got big bodies in the paint, and we don’t have as many. But we’ve got speed, and they’ll need to watch out for that."

More Chemnitz News

The Bulgarian forward, playing in his rookie EuroCup season, sat down with Javier Gancedo to reflect on his and his team's start to the campaign

Check out what the protagonists are saying ahead of Round 3 of the 2025-26 EuroCup season, and who might be missing in action.

Round 3: Pregame quotes and injury reports

## Wednesday, October 15

### Lietkabelis Panevezys vs. ratiopharm Ulm (18:00 CEST)

\--

### Panionios Athens vs. Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse (18:30 CEST)

**Luka Pavicevic, Panionios head coach**

The third round of BKT EuroCup is bringing another strong team in Glyfada. We have already been playing some very strong counters at the beginning, like Chemnitz and now Bourg. With the split that we had in the first two games, we are hoping for a strong performance as a reaction to our Greek League game against AΕΚ Athens, which was not good. But also, as a statement of ambition as α ‘new-old member’ of the EuroCup. So, we hope to have a strong game and bring a win to our fans!.

**Tyler Wahl, Panionios center**

We have another tough game ahead of us in the BKT EuroCup against Bourg. We want to put on a good performance and bounce back after the game against Ulm in Germany. We need to play hard and give our best in order to win.

**Frederic Fauthoux, Bourg head coach**

"Playing in Greece will be difficult: it's a buzzing arena. Panionios has big scorers and quality shooters. The goal will be to manage and control their offense while putting in the necessary energy and staying focused throughout the game."

**Kevin Kokila, Bourg center**

"This is going to be a tough game against a talented offensive team. The key will be to stop them and lower their three-point percentage to have a chance of winning in a tough arena."

**Injury report**: JT Shumate is out for Bourg's Round 3 game.

### Besiktas GAIN Istanbul vs. NINERS Chemnitz (19:00 CEST)

**Rodrigo Pastore, Chemnitz head coach**

"Besiktas is probably one of the most talented teams in the EuroCup. A serious candidate to go all the way. Very deep roster built around two big centers and a lot of shooting around them. The key of the game for us will be tempo of the game."

**Yordan Minchev, Chemnitz forward**

"Coming into this game, we look forward to extending our winning streak. Besiktas has a team that plays a different game than ours, it’s gonna be a battle of tactics, physicality and whoever fights better and puts more effort I believe will get the W."

### Slask Wroclaw vs. U-BT Cluj-Napoca (19:00 CEST)

**Mihai Silvașan, Cluj head coach**

"We’re going through a busy period, with four away games, but that’s part of the competition, part of a team’s life. We have to find solutions every time and try to be the best version of ourselves, regardless of the circumstances. We want to be a winning team, which is why I told the players that we have to bring out the best in ourselves again, especially from a mental standpoint. Even though Slask has only one win so far, it’s still a game against a very physical team that plays at a high pace. We have to maintain the right mindset, take things step by step, and play quality basketball in every game."

**Mitchell Creek, Cluj forward**

"Any time you get to challenge yourself on the road, it’s always a great opportunity to get tighter as a group, a little sharper, and to rely on each other even more as a team. I think that’s what we did against Krka, in ABA League, but now we’re back on the road against Slask, once again on a short turnaround and facing a great team. It’s going to be a big challenge and a great test for us, but one that I believe will put us in a great position if we can get the win."

### Umana Reyer Venice vs. Neptunas Klaipeda (20:00 CEST)

**Neven Spahija, Reyer head coach**

"Despite the loss, we took a big step forward in \[the Italian League game in\] Trapani, compared to the game against Bahcesehir. I have to give credit to our players for that, and I've encouraged them to approach the game against Neptunas with the same mentality. They are a very good and versatile team, especially on offense, and they shoot the three-pointer a lot. Therefore, we need to play better on defense and continue our growth process, improving in every aspect of the game, especially on the defensive rebound to have more opportunities to run in the open court. We are playing at home, and the support of our fans will be fundamental."

**Denzel Valentine, Reyer guard**

"We have the opportunity to get our first win in the EuroCup, and we want to seize it. We're fired up and we will be ready. We need to step on the court with great intensity right from the start, playing with defensive solidity and for each other. I believe we are one of the most talented teams in the competition, and we want to prove it. We are growing; unfortunately, we lost at the end in Trapani, but we showed improvement. Our goal is to keep getting better every day, game by game."

**Injury report**: Reyer confirmed they do not have injuries ahead of the game against Neptunas.

### BAXI Manresa vs. Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (20:45 CEST)

\--

## Thursday, October 16

### London Lions vs. Dolomiti Energia Trento (20:30 CEST)

**Matas Jogela, Trento forward**

"In our next game we’ll face the London Lions in what will be a tough matchup. If we want to come away with a win, we’ll need to give everything we have, because the EuroCup is a very demanding competition where every team fights to win. We lost an important game in the domestic league against Brescia, and we know we need to improve on some details - be more focused, share the ball better. That’s normal at this stage of the season, considering it’s only our fourth official game. We’re working hard every day and keep improving, playing better basketball each time. We’re still learning how to play together and build our chemistry, but I’m confident we’ll get better and do everything we can to win this game in London."

## Tuesday, October 14

### Turk Telekom Ankara vs. Buducnost VOLI Podgorica (18:00 CEST)

**Andrej Zakelj, Buducnost head coach**

"We are going to play an away game against a team with the highest ambitions in the EuroCup. Even before the season started, it was clear that they aimed to win or were among the favorites. Although they haven’t had the best start to the season, that doesn’t mean they don’t play well or that they are a weak team. They have an excellent squad with top individual players who can decide a game. We, just like in the previous match, must have the right approach. Approach and focus are mandatory; everything else – tactics and details – comes second. In these trainings, we will prepare as much as possible. We must respond with energy, determination, and physicality, because only then can we expect a positive result."

**Axel Bouteille, Buducnost forward**

"We have a big opportunity to win there, and we need to send a message to all teams in the EuroCup. We played a great game at home just two days ago, and we have to maintain that momentum. We must stay focused on our own game. They are a strong team, no matter what, and even if they have lost some games at home or away, they remain dangerous. We need to stay alert because they have very skilled players, and it will be a tough challenge regardless of past results."

### Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana vs. Aris Thessaloniki Betsson (18:30 CEST)

**Zvezdan Mitrovic, Cedevita Olimpija head coach**

"On Sunday, we returned from Podgorica via Belgrade, and on Monday we already held a training session in Stozice. Aleksej Nikolic had to leave practice early after receiving a new knock, so he will undergo an additional medical examination this afternoon to determine his condition and whether he will be ready to play. If he’s unable to play, it will be a big handicap for us, as we would be left with only one true point guard, while Aris is strongest precisely in the backcourt positions. In any case, a tough task lies ahead of us. Aris has been showing excellent performances in the EuroCup, while still searching for their first win in the domestic championship. It’s clear that their players are especially motivated for European games – they delivered two very dominant performances against Venice and Hamburg."

**Umoja Gibson, Cedevita Olimpija guard**

"If we want to come out with a win on Tuesday, we’ll need to stay extremely focused on containing their perimeter players, as they have great quality in those positions. At the same time, it will be crucial for us to control the pace of the game and not allow Aris to dictate the tempo. If we play connected and as a team, as we’ve done so far, we can once again hope for a positive outcome."

**DJ Stewart, Cedevita Olimpija guard**

"We know we’re facing a strong opponent, as Aris is playing great basketball in the EuroCup right now. They’re a very good team with many players who can step up and score points. We have a clear game plan, and it’s up to us to bring it onto the court and execute it consistently for the full 40 minutes."

### Veolia Towers Hamburg vs. Bahcesehir College Istanbul (19:30 CEST)

**Benka Barloschky, Hamburg head coach**

"The frustration is growing mainly because we are standing in our own way. In every game, we manage to dictate the play and take control of the game, only to throw away what we have worked so hard to achieve. That hurts! We want to turn that pain into anger and aggression. The goal remains to continue the process and constantly push ourselves to our limits. Bahcesehir is one of the top teams in Europe. They have strengthened their squad again this summer and are among the favorites in our group. We are expecting an extremely difficult home game."

**Benedikt Turudic, Hamburg center**

"We are motivated to win. The positive thing is that we have another chance tomorrow to do much better than we did on Sunday. You could see that in training. Everyone is determined. Now we have to bring that determination onto the court."

**Jared Grey, Hamburg forward**

"For us, it's all about energy in the game against Istanbul. We have to quickly forget Sunday's game, turn things around, and continue to believe in ourselves. I would say it's good that we have the next game coming up right away. Because we simply don't have time to think about it too much. We've put that shitty game behind us and now we want to move on."

London Lions v Dolomiti Energia Trento (2025-10-16T18:30:00.000Z)

BAXI Manresa v Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (2025-10-15T18:45:00.000Z)

Umana Reyer Venice v Neptunas Klaipeda (2025-10-15T18:00:00.000Z)

Besiktas GAIN Istanbul v NINERS Chemnitz (2025-10-15T17:00:00.000Z)

Slask Wroclaw v U-BT Cluj-Napoca (2025-10-15T17:00:00.000Z)

Panionios Athens v Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse (2025-10-15T16:30:00.000Z)

Lietkabelis Panevezys v ratiopharm ulm (2025-10-15T16:00:00.000Z)

Veolia Towers Hamburg v Bahcesehir College Istanbul (2025-10-14T17:30:00.000Z)

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana v Aris Thessaloniki Betsson (2025-10-14T16:30:00.000Z)

Turk Telekom Ankara v Buducnost VOLI Podgorica (2025-10-14T16:00:00.000Z)

It was a tale of two halves at Inselpark Arena on Tuesday night, when Bahcesehir College Istanbul fought back to overcome Veolia Towers Hamburg 85-106. The win took the visitors to 3-0 in BKT EuroCup while the lowly Hamburg fell to 0-3.

Bahcesehir recovers from early struggles in Hamburg to improve perfect record

It was a tale of two halves at Inselpark Arena on Tuesday night, when [Bahcesehir College Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/bahcesehir-college-istanbul/bah/) fought back to overcome [Veolia Towers Hamburg](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/veolia-towers-hamburg/ham/) 85-106. The win took the visitors to 3-0 in BKT EuroCup while the lowly Hamburg fell to 0-3.

After an incredibly cagey start to the contest, eventually both teams settled in and went back-and-forth throughout the first half. Hamburg fouled its way into trouble early on, meaning Bahcesehir kept itself in the contest from the free-throw line. By the time the teams broke for halftime, the hosts were head by three points (45-42), partly due to a 7% three-point shooting performance from Bahcesehir throughout the half.

It was clear as the third quarter began that Marko Barac’s team had reset, and they came back swinging. [Malachi Flynn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/malachi-flynn/013908/) went into takeover mode, capitalizing on Hamburg’s foul trouble and punishing the hosts further at the line. Flynn, [who recently shared his aspirations of EuroCup glory](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/malachi-flynn-seeks-eurocup-championship-thats-what-were-all-here-for/), opened up a double-digit lead for the road team and after that there was no way back for the Towers, who struggled mightily with turnovers.

“The way we entered the second half was different to the first, we showed much more energy defensively and in rebounding,” Barac said. “Obviously, we have a lot of quality and when we play with this kind of energy we are on a good way.” 

The energy shift was certainly apparent. The Turkish team scored 60 points in the second half to secure the win. Capitalizing on the German side’s carelessness, Bahcesehir recorded 27 points off turnovers and as a result, 17 fast-break points throughout. [Caleb Homesley](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/caleb-homesley/011251/) joined Flynn in scoring 21, but also logged 3 boards and 4 assists. [Tyler Cavanaugh](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/tyler-cavanaugh/009601/) led the way, however, putting in a tremendously versatile performance that results in a 16, 7 & 5 stat line.

“Any time you win on the road in EuroCup it’s huge,” Cavanagh said. “This Hamburg team is much better than their record, they play fast, they’re very aggressive and score a lot of points. We weren’t very focused defensively in the first half, but we were able to pick that up in the second half, it was a good second 20 minutes for us.

“The coaches always preach fast-break points and points off turnovers. We have a lot of guys on defense that create deflections, are aggressive on the ball and we were able to turn that into points tonight.”

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">🔥 THAT’S ANOTHER DUB!<br><br>BKT EuroCup | 3. Hafta | Maç Sonucu<br>🏀 Veolia Towers Hamburg 85 – 106 Bahçeşehir Kolej<br><br>• Caleb Homesley: 21 sayı, 3 ribaund, 4 asist<br>• Malachi Flynn: 21 sayı, 3 ribaund, 2 asist<br>• Tyler Cavanaugh: 16 sayı, 7 ribaund, 5 asist <br>• Trevion Williams:11… <a href="https://t.co/T41lKIVGuR">pic.twitter.com/T41lKIVGuR</a></p>&mdash; Bahçeşehir Koleji Spor Kulübü (@BKBasketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/BKBasketbol/status/1978184092945362982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The result was tough on Hamburg, which wouldn’t go down without a fight but ultimately couldn’t handle the rejuvenated Bahcesehir in the second half. Head coach Benka Barloschsky was proud of how his team fought in the first two quarters, but thought the third was when his men lost control of the contest.

“In the third quarter, Istanbul started to punish us with technical elements, we tried to adjust and we did, but we couldn’t keep up the scoring on the other side,” Barloschsky shared. “We couldn’t generate the same looks that we could before, Istanbul was scoring too easily and they didn’t allow us to run the same way.”

Hamburg remains winless after three rounds and will face Neptunas Klaipeda next week. Bahcesehir, meanwhile, will hope to continue its perfect start to the season when it hosts Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">💎 İşte galibiyetin 𝐌𝐕𝐏’si! <br><br>🔑 Veolia Towers Hamburg galibiyetimizde anahtar rol oynayan oyuncumuz; 16 sayı, 7 ribaund, 5 asist, 26 verimlilik puanı performansıyla Tyler Cavanaugh oluyor!<br><br>❤️💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CatchYourDreams?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CatchYourDreams</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EuroCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/mVlSKTwxzn">pic.twitter.com/mVlSKTwxzn</a></p>&mdash; Bahçeşehir Koleji Spor Kulübü (@BKBasketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/BKBasketbol/status/1978185864409706877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Game News

It wasn't all smooth sailing for Marko Barac’s men, yet they still did enough to get the win

In a battle of undefeated teams, Cedevita shut down Aris with an 80-59 win to improve to 3-0

Cedevita sends defensive statement in 80-59 victory over Aris

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana bagged an important early victory atop Group A of the BKT EuroCup in beating Aris Thessaloniki Betsson at home with a strong defensive statement.

In a battle of undefeated teams, Cedevita shut down Aris with an 80-59 win to improve to 3-0. While even Cedevita head coach Zvezdan Mitrovic said the final result was a bit deceiving in terms of how tight the game felt, he loved the second number of the scoreline.

“They were a team who scored an average of 90 points (91.5) through two games and today they had 59. That was really good,” said the coach. "Maybe the difference was bigger than it should have been, but this is the reward for our great defensive effort.”

Aris shot over 60 percent on two-pointers and over 35% on three-pointers in both of its first two games. But Bogdan Karaicic’s team connected on only 44 and 33%, respectively in the Slovenian capital. And after launching 50 three-pointers in the first two games, Aris attempted only 12 against Cedevita, making four of them. Many of those came as Aris tried to come back from a 16-point third-quarter deficit.

Cedevita got a big break early in the second half when Aris’s star guard Bryce Jones picked up his third and fourth fouls within 42 seconds of the first minute of the third quarter. Jones ended up not coming back until 8 minutes left in the game and couldn’t turn the game around before fouling out. Jones finished with 6 points, 1 rebound and 3 assists in less than 20 minutes - well below his averages of 21 points, 4.5 rebounds and 5.5 assists coming into the game.

Mitrovic, meanwhile, has to be happy about his team coming through with DJ Stewart having another pedestrian game of 9 points and 7 rebounds - down from the 27-point, 8-rebound and 5-assist outburst in Round 2.

Umoja Gibson looked for some time as if he would set a new personal scoring mark with 19 points early in the third quarter. But he remained on those 19 points the rest of the game. Aleksej Nikolic was reported to have health issues, but he fought through them with 15 points.

But Cedevita got a boost off the bench from their sharpshooter Joseph Girard, who hit 4 three-pointers for 16 points - 2 fewer than his total output from the first two games.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="sl" dir="ltr">Kapetan <a href="https://twitter.com/JakaBlazic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JakaBlazic</a> je napredoval ⬆️ za eno mesto na večni lestvici strelcev v <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EuroCup</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZmajevaDruzina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZmajevaDruzina</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoadToGreatness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoadToGreatness</a> <a href="https://t.co/IVI0TU7zqB">pic.twitter.com/IVI0TU7zqB</a></p>&mdash; Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (@KKCedOL) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKCedOL/status/1978179931050770823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Even 35-year-old veteran Jaka Blazic gave some strong production with 6 points and 5 assists in 16 minutes, which saw him move past Jamar Smith and into fifth place on the EuroCup's all-time scoring charts with 1,399 career points. Blazic had only collected 6 points and 1 assist so far this campaign.

Put it all together and Cedevita is really happy to have grabbed this victory. It’s a statement that the Slovenian side can win with defense too - having conceded only 69 points in a Round 1 home win over BAXI Manresa.

“It was very big, very big. We had a chance to go 3-0 in the EuroCup. It’s a wonderful feeling. I am excited about it,” said Gibson.

Another reason why it is big is because of the aforementioned final score. A 21-point victory could go a long way in securing Cedevita a better spot in the final rankings after the Regular Season if the team could get into a tie with Aris.

Sure, that is a long road from now, but the first stones in the road are being laid.

Cedevita has given up just 64 points per game in its two home wins

Turk Telekom Ankara had been chasing the kind of night where everything clicked on the court. Back in front of their home crowd, the blue-and-whites broke through for their first BKT EuroCup win of the season, defeating Buducnost VOLI Podgorica 79-72.

Turk Telekom finds rhythm, holds off Buducnost 79-72 for first EuroCup W

Turk Telekom Ankara had been chasing the kind of night where everything clicked on the court. Back in front of their home crowd, the blue-and-whites broke through for their first BKT EuroCup win of the season, defeating Buducnost VOLI Podgorica 79-72.

Kyle Allman emerged as one of the catalysts for Turk Telekom’s breakthrough night. The American guard brought energy on both ends, finishing with 16 points and 4 assists through his hustle, defense, and timely scoring. He attacked the rim with intent, repeatedly breaking through defenders and putting pressure on Buducnost’s interior defense. Even when Turk Telekom’s outside shooting struggled, Allman stepped up with a crucial triple that shifted the momentum back in his team’s favor. With sharp jabs, hesitation moves, and strong finishes, he delivered the spark Turk Telekom’s backcourt had been looking for.

After the game, Allman reflected on the team’s slow start to the season: "It’s been a long road. We started out slow in both leagues, the Turkish league and EuroCup. I think it’s kinda been low energy and we always tried to pick it up in practice and pick it up when we’re around each other. This is the way we need to play, and I think when we look forward, we need to look at this game. And this is how we need to start the games and be able to push to end games."

The blue-and-whites shared the ball exceptionally well in the first half, with all 10 players who got game time contributing to the score from the opening quarter. Even after a 14‑0 run, Turk Telekom went into the break just ahead at 43‑42, with Buducnost’s hot outside shooting keeping the game close.

Another standout for Turk Telekom was Marko Simonovic, who had signaled a strong season in Round 2 out with a PIR of 33 and followed it up with a PIR of 15 against Buducnost. In a game where the team struggled from beyond the arc, Simonovic’s 2 key triples provided crucial scoring. Kyle Alexander also made an impact in his first minutes of the season, combining with Marko Simonovic, who finished with 15 points and 7 rebounds to make a difference around the rim. Alexander added 10 points and 7 rebounds of his own, helping Turk Telekom control the paint.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">Galibiyet sevinci 💙🤍 <a href="https://t.co/xP1qghp4JD">pic.twitter.com/xP1qghp4JD</a></p>&mdash; Türk Telekom Basketbol (@TT_Basketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/TT_Basketbol/status/1978179756286759190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The key factor behind Turk Telekom’s win was its defense. Head coach Erdem Can, who also guided the team to the 2022‑23 EuroCup final, highlighted the importance of containing their opponents in the post-game press conference, saying: "Lately we were not playing great basketball, but some periods in the game we were playing really decisive, and the problem was our consistency throughout 40 minutes. We opened the first quarter very good and then we were not smart in the second quarter, making easy mistakes. But overall, we just received 30 points in the second half and that was the key to the game."

With the win, Turk Telekom claimed its sixth straight victory over Buducnost, a matchup that has gone their way every time since 2022. Turk Telekom will look to ride that wave of momentum into Round 4, when it faces Dolomiti Energia on the road in Trento. 

Strong defense powers the hosts to the victory 

You were probably expecting to see señor Javier Gancedo for the Round 3 fantasy tips, but since I outscored the Fantasy Guru in last week's EuroCup Fantasy Challenge, here I am!

Fantasy tips, Round 3: Hopping on the wave

You were probably expecting to see señor Javier Gancedo for the Round 3 fantasy tips, but since I outscored the Fantasy Guru in last week's EuroCup Fantasy Challenge, here I am!

My objective is to help your fantasy team by recommending players who have started to find their rhythm, or in one case a player who I’m convinced is primed for a bounce-back performance. But enough with the pleasantries – these are my five fantasy tips for Round 3.

### Devon Dotson, Besiktas GAIN Istanbul (12.6 credits)

I’ll let you in on a secret. Last season when [Devon Dotson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/devon-dotson/013285/) was playing for Joventut Badalona, he immediately became one of my favorite players in the EuroCup. Now, he’s the head of the snake for a Besiktas side that has to be viewed as a contender to win the whole thing. After a decent performance in Round 1, Dotson elevated his play in Round 2 and I expect him to keep that momentum going at home to NINERS Chemnitz on Wednesday night.

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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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### Cheickh Niang, Dolomiti Energia Trento (4.8 credits)

While Saliou Niang is earning rave reviews in his rookie EuroLeague season with Virtus Bologna, his 17-year-old brother [Cheickh Niang](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/cheickh-niang/013756/) is starting to make waves in the EuroCup. From a fantasy perspective, Niang had a rough start as he posted a -5.00 fantasy score in Round 1, but he turned things around in Round 2 by recording 8.80 fantasy points. At 4.8 credits, I really think it’s time to jump on the Cheickh Niang train before his value skyrockets.

### Jordan Usher, Turk Telekom Ankara (9.2 credits)

Remember I mentioned a player who I think is ready for a bounce-back performance this week? Well, let me introduce you to Mr. [Jordan Usher](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jordan-usher/013265/). He had a very decent debut for Turk Telekom in Round 1 (19.00 fantasy points) but didn’t enjoy a great individual night in Round 2 (-3.00 fantasy points). With Turk Telekom 0-2 heading into Round 3, I think we’ll see a big game by Usher in front of an expectant home crowd.

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### Rok Radovic, Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (4.8 credits)

One player who I’ve had on my own EuroCup Fantasy Challenge team since Round 1 is [Rok Radovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/rok-radovic/009392/). Not only is he a bargain at 4.8 credits, but he’s putting up decent fantasy numbers too – 7.70 points in Round 1, then 9.90 points in Round 2. If you’re looking to fill out your team and are low on funds, the Cedevita Olimpija forward would be a very smart addition.

### Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu, Manresa (8.6 credits)

For anyone who watched Manresa in Round 2, [Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/kaodirichi-akobundu-ehiogu/013845/) has to be at the forefront of your mind. He had a rough EuroCup debut in Round 1, recording a -3.00 fantasy score, but his all-action display against Slask Wroclaw last week saw him earn an 18.70 fantasy score. With Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem coming to Pavello Nou Congost on Wednesday night, I would fancy Akobundu-Ehiogu to put his fingerprints on the game once again, which can only spell good news for fantasy managers.

More EuroCup Fantasy Challenge News

Geoff Gillingham is here to offer fantasy managers some recommendations for this week

Starting his first overseas season with 20.0 points per game in two winning efforts for Bahcesehir College Istanbul in the BKT EuroCup Regular Season, Malachi Flynn is hoping for more of the same all the way to a championship, which would secure the Istanbul side a spot in next year’s EuroLeague.

Malachi Flynn seeks EuroCup championship: ‘That’s what we’re all here for’

Starting his first overseas season with 20.0 points per game in two winning efforts for [Bahcesehir College Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/bahcesehir-college-istanbul/bah/) in the BKT EuroCup Regular Season, [Malachi Flynn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/malachi-flynn/013908/) is hoping for more of the same all the way to a championship, which would secure the Istanbul side a spot in next year’s EuroLeague.

“Absolutely,” the 27-year-old point guard told Eurohoops when asked about the team’s main goal for the 2025-26 campaign. “That's what we're all here for. Obviously, we’ve got to go out game by game and prove it. Nothing's going to be given to us, but I think we definitely have that potential.”

Naturally, his strong performances have already sparked interest from other European clubs.

“To be honest, I’m not really worried about what’s being said,” Flynn said. “The main thing is what’s going on within these walls – who’s on the team – and I’m committed to this team. I think we’ve got a pretty good thing going right now.”

Read more [HERE](https://www.eurohoops.net/en/trademarks/1879769/malachi-flynn-talks-bahcesehir-koleji-eurocup/).

More Bahcesehir News

During the offseason, the 27-year-old confirmed Bahcesehir’s plans to contend for the BKT EuroCup title

Round 3 of the BKT EuroCup regular season will see five teams defending perfect records, with five more seeking a first victory. Here’s your overview of the upcoming action.

At a glance: At least one unbeaten record will end in Round 3

Round 3 of the BKT EuroCup regular season will see five teams defending perfect records, with five more seeking a first victory. Here’s your overview of the upcoming action.

## Tuesday, October 14

### Turk Telekom Ankara vs. Buducnost VOLI Podgorica (18:00 CEST)

This week’s opening tipoff will see Turk Telekom (0-2) seek its first victory with a visit from Buducnost (1-1). The hosts will feel that a win is on the way after a couple of tight losses, and will hope for more fireworks from big man Marko Simonovic after he combined 27 points with 10 rebounds at Bourg last week. Buducnost needs to bounce back from a home loss against Trento when defense was the main problem, allowing 107 points. Offensively, the visiting team will be driven by forward Skylar Mays, who has averaged 17.0 points over the first two games.

### Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana vs. Aris Thessaloniki Betsson (18:30 CEST)

Two perfect records will be on the line as Cedevita (2-0) welcomes Aris (2-0). The Slovenian team’s strong start to the season has been powered by excellent defense, allowing opponents just 76.5 points per game partly thanks to the ball thieving skills of Joseph Girard (2.0 steals per game). DJ Stewart’s efficiency near the basket, with 11 of his 14 two-point attempts converted, will be a major threat to an Aris team which has also been very effective inside the paint. Naz Mitrou-Long scored 15 points on perfect two-point shooting in last week’s win over Hamburg, and maintaining those levels of offensive execution will be the task for both teams.

### Veolia Towers Hamburg vs. Bahcesehir College Istanbul (19:30 CEST)

It’s bottom against top in Germany as winless Hamburg (0-2) welcomes high-flying Bahcesehir (2-0). The host has struggled defensively, allowing 99.0 points per game with its opponents converting a league-high 71.8% of two-point shots, despite the outstanding rebounding skills of big man Zacharie Perrin with 11 and 14 boards in the first two games. He faces a big challenge this week against visiting center Trevion Williams, whose double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds was instrumental in last week’s win over Reyer. Bahcesehir has been firing on all cylinders behind an offense led by Malachi Flynn (20.0 points and 6.0 assists per game), and will look for more of the same on Tuesday.

## Wednesday, October 15

### Lietkabelis Panevezys vs. ratiopharm Ulm (18:00 CEST)

Lietkabelis (1-1) needs to rediscover its offense as it faces the challenge of ending Ulm’s (2-0) perfect start to the season. The Lithuanian team could only muster 67 points in last week’s loss at Chemnitz, especially struggling from long range with only 5 three-pointers converted. Shooter Jamel Morris will be particularly keen to find his range after making just 3 of his 14 long-range attempts so far this season. Ulm had no such problems as it blasted 103 points past Panionis in Round 2, and will hope that Nelson Weidemann can maintain his hot hand after converting 75% of his three-point attempts across the opening two gsmes.

### Panionios Athens vs. Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse (18:30 CEST)

Panionios (1-1) will attempt to return to winning ways with a visit from Group B leader Bourg (2-0). The French team maintained its perfect start by downing Turk Telekom last week, powered by the versatile scoring skills of Both Gach (21 points). But Panionios has shown it possesses plenty of firepower by averaging 92.5 points in the first two games, with Jaylen Hands netting 23 points in last week’s high-scoring loss at Ulm. The distribution of Markel Starks, who dished 11 assists in that game, will also be crucial against a Bourg team relying on more backcourt inspiration from Darius McGhee (21.5 points and 5.0 assists per night).

### Besiktas GAIN Istanbul vs. NINERS Chemnitz (19:00 CEST)

After both teams won convincingly last week, Besiktas (1-1) and Chemnitz (1-1) will look to build more momentum when they meet in Istanbul. The German team will look to control the paint through the power of Bulgarian big man Yordan Minchev, who has averaged 9.5 rebounds over the first two games, while Ty Brewer will again attempt to fire from long range after netting 4 triples in last week’s win over Lietkabelis. The home team showed its potential with a thumping win over London in Round 2, with six players in double digits led by Ante Zizic’s 17 points to showcase the variety of weapons at the disposal of coach Dusan Alimpijevic.

### Slask Wroclaw vs. U-BT Cluj-Napoca (19:00 CEST)

Two teams tied in the middle of Group A go head to head as Slask (1-1) welcomes Cluj (1-1). Slask needs an offensive improvement after scoring just 62 points in last week’s loss at Manresa, with no players scoring in double digits. Kadre Gray will look to lead the necessary upturn after failing to record any assists in Round 2, but he faces a tough task for backcourt supremacy against Cluj dynamo Fatts Russell, who has made a spectacular start to the season with 21 and 37 points in the opening two rounds. Nathan Mensah was also key to last week’s win at Neptunas with 15 points and 13 boards, so he will look to control the paint again.

### Umana Reyer Venice vs. Neptunas Klaipeda (20:00 CEST)

A first win of the season is up for grabs as Reyer (0-2) faces Neptunas (0-2). The home team needs to find its three-point shooting game after only making 31% of triples so far, and guard RJ Cole will be confident of rising to that challenge after shooting 3 of 5 from long-range in last week’s loss at Bahcesehir. Reyer struggled off the glass in that game, so needs Amedeo Tessitori to shine against a Neptunas frontcourt led by Arnas Venicka, who has averaged 10.0 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. The Lithuanian team will also look for more scoring heroics from Donatas Tarolis, who netted 21 in last week’s high-scoring loss to Cluj.

### BAXI Manresa vs. Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (20:45 CEST)

Hapoel (1-1) seeks a return to winning ways with a tough trip to face a Manresa team (1-1) aiming for a second straight win. Hapoel star Jared Harper is aiming to hit top form after a fairly subdued start to the season, especially from long range with just 25% of three-point attempts converted. That won’t be easy against a Manresa defense which showed its toughness in last week’s win over Slask, allowing just 62 points. The big man tandem of Grant Golden (14 points) and Kaodirichi Akobundu (13 points and 3 blocked shots) functioned particularly well for the Spanish team, which will again attempt to use physicality to control the tempo against Hapoel’s dangerous offense.

## Thursday, October 16

### London Lions vs. Dolomiti Energia Trento (20:30 CEST)

Thursday’s only game will see London (0-2) seek a first victory against resurgent Trento (1-1). Having lost its first game by 30, the Italian team bounced back last week to overcome Buducnost on the road behind a stellar DeVante Jones (24 points and 7 assists). Trento made 72.5% of its two-point shots in that game, so will look to again control the paint against a London team which has the worst offense in the competition with just 66.0 points per game. A key man for the British team will be Deane Williams, who paired 8 points with 10 rebounds in last week’s heavy loss at Besiktas.

Andy West previews Round 3 of the EuroCup 2025-26 season

With three teams averaging over 95 points per game, the league’s youngest group leading all teams in offensive efficiency, several standout scorers already emerging, and a rise in transition play, there’s no shortage of storylines building momentum through the first 2 rounds of the BKT EuroCup

Stats review: Understanding a faster, higher-scoring EuroCup 

With three teams averaging over 95 points per game, the league’s youngest group leading all teams in offensive efficiency, several standout scorers already emerging, and a rise in transition play, there’s no shortage of storylines building momentum through the first 2 rounds of the BKT EuroCup.  While it is still too early to draw many concrete conclusions about where this season is headed, there have been plenty of compelling games early on and a few numbers that have defined them.

 

### 3 – the number of teams scoring over 95 points per game

[ratiopharm Ulm](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/ratiopharm-ulm/ulm/), [U-BT Cluj-Napoca](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/u-bt-cluj-napoca/clu/), and [Bahcesehir College Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/bahcesehir-college-istanbul/bah/) have all eclipsed that mark to this point. Playing at varying paces, bringing radically different levels of ball movement in the half court, using entirely different offensive hierarchies, those three teams have been similarly prolific offensively without playing particularly similar styles. Those differences have not extended to their Synergy Shot Quality - a measure of the expected value of a team’s shot attempts based on a variety of factors.

Historically, some EuroCup teams rely on shot-making talent and others thrive on their patience hunting quality looks to sit atop the overall offensive efficiency leaderboards. In contrast, all three of this season’s most productive offenses in the early going have nearly identical - and equally exceptional - shot quality with the encouraging shot-making to match. 

### 24.8 years old and 1.08 points per possession scored

Ulm is often the youngest team in the EuroCup as it integrates a casting of prospects each season into the rotation. With their lineups featuring an average age of just 24.8 years old, this year is no exception as its players are on average a full year younger than the next closest teams, [Dolomiti Energia Trento](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/dolomiti-energia-trento/trn/) and the other team currently undefeated in Group B, [Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/cosea-jl-bourg-en-bresse/bou/) .

That has not stopped Ulm from jumping out to a stellar start, averaging a league-best 1.08 points per possession made even more impressive by how much of that work it has done in the half-court. The additions of [Mark Smith](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/mark-smith/013969/), [Christian Sengfelder](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/christian-sengfelder/013917/), and [Chris Ledlum](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/christopher-ledlum/013968/) coupled with the growth of returning wings [Tobias Jensen](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/tobias-jensen/010726/) and [Nelson Weidemann](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/nelson-weidemann/006245/) as off-ball weapons, have had Ty Harrelson’s team looking like a well-oiled machine early.

 

### 8 teams generating over 15% of their offense in transition

It is not easy to play fast at this level; the level of organization and discipline getting back on defense makes it hard for teams to get shots in early offense. Even so, and with turnovers remaining relatively flat from last season, offenses have been very aggressive looking to push this season. At the end of last season, only Valencia Basket was generating more than 15% of its offense in transition - and only by a few possessions.  This season, eight teams sit at 15% or higher with five teams above 17%.  While that may not seem like a major difference, it is one of the main reasons the league has been moving around 4 possessions per game faster than it did a season ago.

 

### 38.2 points per 40 minutes

This season marks a bit of a changing of the guard in the EuroCup, and [Fatts Russell](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/daron-russell/013943/) has emerged as the league’s most dangerous scorer early on, scoring nearly a point per minute thus far. The 27-year-old has a few years of European experience under his belt, but has looked as confident in the EuroCup to this point as he has as a pro. That is an encouraging sign for Cluj, which looks to turn its back-to-back postseason berths into a streak.

Sportradar looks at the trends that have led to more points early in the EuroCup season

Any time Zsombor Maronka was fighting through his difficult 2024-25 season, he just had to look at his wrist and the bracelet he wears. The gift from his family a decade ago reads: “Create what you want to be” and “Greatness is a choice”. And those words helped the young Hungarian talent get back on the court after 10 months out. 

Inspirational bracelet means even more for Zsombor Maronka after successful recovery

Any time [Zsombor Maronka](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/zsombor-maronka/008103/) was fighting through his difficult 2024-25 season, he just had to look at his wrist and the bracelet he wears. The gift from his family a decade ago reads: “Create what you want to be” and “Greatness is a choice”. And those words helped the young Hungarian talent get back on the court after 10 months out. 

Maronka will remember September 24, 2025, for quite some time. It was the first time the 23-year-old got stepped on the parquet for a game since November 2024 after recovering from cartilage being removed from his foot. Hamburg lost 94-89 to Bamberg, but Maronka finally felt the rush of playing in front of fans again.

“Despite the loss, honestly, it was amazing and just uplifting to be back on the court. After such a long time of just watching the guys play and now finally being able to be on the court and help the team and do stuff, it was just amazing,” said Maronka, who totaled 8 points and 2 rebounds in 17 minutes in the game, told David Hein.

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Maronka has been playing basketball since he was four years old and that was by far his longest stretch of being away from the game, having previously missed about two months with a sprained ankle. 

Back in November 2024, Maronka took a wrong step and said he heard a crack. An MRI could not really provide immediate clarity and surgery was needed to see exactly what had happened. 

Before the surgery, Maronka was told by doctors he could miss six weeks or six months. They wouldn’t know until they went into to examine the ankle. 

“When I woke up the doc told me: 'Everything went well, the surgery was successful and everything went according to plan. But there's going to be a longer recovery time.' So that's when the first moment of realization hit,” he remembered.

A large piece of cartilage at the front of his foot had broken off and had to be removed. Surgeons, he said, replaced the empty space with a matrix gel to help regrow the cartilage. Maronka was forced to wear a boot for six weeks to make sure the matrix stayed in place. 

He was on crutches for that time and it was a challenge for him to do every day tasks, including taking the stairs to his apartment on the fourth floor. 

Maronka initially was doing the math and thinking six months meant he could maybe get back in time for the end of the regular season or the playoffs in May. The progress turned out to be slower than he'd hoped and it was clear he would have to wait instead of risking it. 

“By the end, the most difficult part for me was knowing when you're at that point of almost coming back, but you still have to hold yourself back, be patient and not rush the end of the process,” said Maronka. 

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He did not go the rehab process alone. Beside family and friends, he also talked to Hamburg’s sports psychologist Renate Eichenberger throughout the entire rehab. Still, Maronka always tries to keep a positive mindset and believes things happen for a reason. And he said he used the rehab time to work on his body and his mental aspect of the game.

He worked out with the club’s strength coach on basketball-specific training. That and other work helped him eliminate previous lower back problems that had bothered him. Maronka joked that he worked out so much with the club’s assault bike – a stationary exercise bike for full-body, high-intensity workouts – that it became his best friend.

Right there with him also was that bracelet from his parents and brother, given to him when he left Hungary in 2016 to join Joventut Badalona. And the messages meant even more while he was rehabbing.

“There were a lot of moments last year where I felt like I could have accepted the mentality of I'm not playing, I cannot contribute to the team. But I feel like I attacked rehab even harder than I would do regular practices. I felt like this is a time that I can really create habits and a mentality that will help me even more moving forward once I'm back playing,” he said.

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CumtBsFMfg5/?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 Zsombor Maronka (@maronkazs)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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Maronka is still in the process of creating the Zsombor he wants to be.

“I feel like first of all even more of a team player, a team guy. I was able to see aspects of how important it is the standards you hold for yourself to around the team.”

He may still be one of the younger players, but he came into last season with 13 EuroCup games played over three seasons with Joventut, starting with his debut in November 2020.

“I'm one of the guys who played at a pretty high level already, so maybe bring some tips, some experience with that energy and intensity. So I just want to be a supportive guy to my teammates and be the best version of myself.”

This past summer also saw Maronka sign a two-year contract with Hamburg. He had been in Hamburg last season on loan from Joventut – the club that loaned him to Neptunas Klaipeda in 2023-24 as well.

“I made the decision because after coming off of a long injury, I would need a lot of playing time. And I felt like this was a better place for me to be able to play,” he said. “I felt like the coaches' expectations for me here are more suitable for my plans. That's why I made the decision.”

Maronka actually signed the new contract while he was in Badalona this past July, saying goodbye to the people in the Spanish club. 

Maronka still had two more years on his long-term deal with Joventut so it didn’t seem odd at all to pen a two-year contract with Hamburg. 

“Signing a two-year contract here also would give me more security. I don't have to rush things, and the club gave me that sign too. So I also really appreciate that."

Now things are in place for Maronka to create the best Zsombor Maronka he can be. 

More Hamburg News

The Hamburg forward wears a bracelet reading: “Create what you want to be” and “Greatness is a choice”

Look back at all the action in Round 2 of the 2025-26 BKT EuroCup season by checking out the best photos of the week! 

Top 10 photos from Round 2

Look back at all the action from Round 2 of the 2025-26 BKT EuroCup season by checking out the best photos of the week! 

Round 3 of the 2025-26 EuroCup season has arrived. Check out the Game Center in order to see how the teams got on.

Game Center: Round 3

## Wednesday, October 15

### [Lietkabelis Panevezys 94-98 ratiopharm ulm](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/lietkabelis-panevezys-ratiopharm-ulm/U2025/29/)

ratiopharm ulm saw its 19-point halftime lead cut to 4 in the penultimate minute, but still held on to defeat Lietkabelis Panevezys 94-98 on Wednesday at Kalnapilio Arena. With the score 86-90, Christian Sengfelder blocked a Jamel Morris shot and Mark Smith buried a clutch three-pointer at the other end with 1:02 remaining.

Christopher Ledlum paced the winners with 26 points and 5 assists, Tobias Jensen tallied 13 points and 6 rebounds and Bryce Brown added 12 points for Ulm, which remained undefeated through three games. Kristian Kullamae, Jamel Morris and Augustine Rubit each scored 18 and Paulius Danusevicius posted a double-double for Lietkabelis, which dropped to 1-2 after suffering its first home loss of the season.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/ratiopharmulm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ratiopharmulm</a> keep it rolling on the road 🔥 <br><br>Another win in the books! ✅ <a href="https://t.co/cD8DjuplXM">pic.twitter.com/cD8DjuplXM</a></p>&mdash; BKT EuroCup (@EuroCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroCup/status/1978526112356401186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### [Panionios Athens 56-66 Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/panionios-athens-cosea-jl-bourg-en-bresse/U2025/28/)

Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse remains undefeated in Group B after holding off Panionios Athens 56-66 on Wednesday night in Glyfada. Bourg improved to 3-0 on the young season while Panionios dropped to 1-2. Bourg was in command during the first three quarters thanks to a double-digit rebounding advantage through the first 30 minutes (36-26), and it built a 21-point margin which turned too big for the hosts to overcome.

Darius McGhee scored 11 of his 17 points in the first half, Vincent Mitchell netted 10, while Kevin Kokila pulled down 11 rebounds along with 9 points. Giorgios Tsalmpouris had 11, and Nate Watson scored 10 points in the loss.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">W-W-W 🔥<br><br>Undefeated <a href="https://twitter.com/JLBourgBasket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JLBourgBasket</a> ✅ <a href="https://t.co/eKb1Plnpvb">pic.twitter.com/eKb1Plnpvb</a></p>&mdash; BKT EuroCup (@EuroCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroCup/status/1978525834500526543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### [Besiktas GAIN Istanbul 93-88 NINERS Chemnitz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/besiktas-gain-istanbul-niners-chemnitz/U2025/30/)

Besiktas GAIN Istanbul claimed a hard-fought 93-88 home win over NINERS Chemnitz at BJK GAIN Sports Complex, which improved its record to 2-1 in the BKT EuroCup. In a tightly contested matchup where both teams struggled defensively and had trouble finding rhythm from beyond the arc, Besiktas leaned on its crowd energy and bench depth to take control in the final quarter. Team captain Yigit Arslan led the way with 19 points on 83.3% shooting from deep, posting a PIR of 23 and hitting crucial threes down the stretch.

Berk Ugurlu provided a spark with 8 points and 12 assists, finishing with a PIR of 24, while Ante Zizic added 17 points and 7 rebounds in the paint. For Chemnitz, Kevin Yebo stood out with 32 points and 7 rebounds, Corey Davis recorded a double-double of 22 points and 11 assists, and Yordan Minchev contributed 15 points in the loss.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">Akatlar&#39;da galibiyet bizim! 💪<br><br>Beşiktaş GAİN 93-88 Niners Chemnitz | Maç Sonucu <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheBlackEagleRises?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheBlackEagleRises</a> 🦅 <a href="https://t.co/ZlmaeixqOE">pic.twitter.com/ZlmaeixqOE</a></p>&mdash; Beşiktaş GAİN (@BJK_Basketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJK_Basketbol/status/1978540408096329764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### [Slask Wroclaw 94-93 U-BT Cluj-Napoca](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/slask-wroclaw-u-bt-cluj-napoca/U2025/21/)

Slask Wroclaw rallied from 16 points down to grab its second victory of the season by beating U-BT Cluj-Napoca 94-93 in an absolute thriller at home. The game in Poland featured 13 lead changes – nine of them coming in the final quarter – as Slask improved 2-1 in Group A. Slask used an 8-0 spurt in the final frame to build an eight-point lead and barely held on. Stefan Djordjevic collected 19 points and 8 rebounds, Noah Kirkwood scored 15 points and Kadre Gray and Jakub Niziol both added 14 points. 

Cluj fell to 1-2 despite another electrifying performance by Fatts Russell, who tallied 21 points, 8 rebounds and 15 assists, coming up one shy of tying the EuroCup record. Trey Woodbury added 20 points and Mitch Creek chipped in 18 points in the loss. 

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Exciting finish, <a href="https://twitter.com/WKS_SlaskBasket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WKS_SlaskBasket</a> takes the win 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoadToGreatness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoadToGreatness</a> <a href="https://t.co/xGePFOmPZW">pic.twitter.com/xGePFOmPZW</a></p>&mdash; BKT EuroCup (@EuroCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroCup/status/1978538410542276900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### [Umana Reyer Venice 89-69 Neptunas Klaipeda](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/umana-reyer-venice-neptunas-klaipeda/U2025/22/)

Umana Reyer Venice earned its first EuroCup victory by defeating Neptunas Klaipeda 89-69. The Italian team dictated play throughout, keeping the Lithuanians at distance for the majority of the contest. Despite shooting just 17% from deep, Reyer scored as a collective unit, with five different players reaching double figures. 

Chris Horton stood out, recording a double-double and finishing with a PIR of 22. The win moves Reyer to 1-2, while frustrated Neptunas fall to 0-3.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="it" dir="ltr">Vittoria europea!<br>I leoni conquistano il match con Klaipeda di fronte ad un Taliercio colmo di cuori orogranata ❤️‍🔥<br>Avanti così leoni <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/finoallafine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#finoallafine</a> <a href="https://t.co/7wjnrZ4Agn">pic.twitter.com/7wjnrZ4Agn</a></p>&mdash; Reyer Venezia (@REYER1872) <a href="https://twitter.com/REYER1872/status/1978551500860219656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### [BAXI Manresa 101-94 Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/baxi-manresa-hapoel-bank-yahav-jerusalem/U2025/25/)

Manresa fought back from 13 points down to win its second-ever game in the EuroCup by knocking off Jerusalem 101-94 at home. EuroCup debutant Manresa used a 24-10 run spanning the final two quarters to get back into the game, which was played behind closed doors. The final frame was a nail-biter but the home side pulled away with an 8-3 surge in the closing moments to improve to 2-1 with back-to-back wins. 

Alfonso Plummer set a new career high with 21 points while Alex Reyes scored 16 points and Hugo Benitez chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. Jerusalem has lost back-to-back games for a 1-2 mark despite Justin Smith tallying a career high 23 points and both Jared Harper and Khadeen Carrington scoring 21 points. 

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ca" dir="ltr">FINAL del 🚨 𝟰𝗤<br><br>101 🔴 𝗕𝗔𝗫𝗜 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗮<br>94 🇮🇱 <a href="https://twitter.com/JerusalemBasket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JerusalemBasket</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOMHIManresa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOMHIManresa</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wwh3ujzkzN">pic.twitter.com/Wwh3ujzkzN</a></p>&mdash; BAXI Manresa (@BasquetManresa) <a href="https://twitter.com/BasquetManresa/status/1978566237828362611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

## Thursday, October 16

### [London Lions vs. Dolomiti Energia Trento (20:30 CEST)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/london-lions-dolomiti-energia-trento/U2025/26/)

Thursday’s only game will see London (0-2) seek a first victory against resurgent Trento (1-1). Having lost its first game by 30, the Italian team bounced back last week to overcome Buducnost on the road behind a stellar DeVante Jones (24 points and 7 assists). Trento made 72.5% of its two-point shots in that game, so will look to again control the paint against a London team which has the worst offense in the competition with just 66.0 points per game. A key man for the British team will be Deane Williams, who paired 8 points with 10 rebounds in last week’s heavy loss at Besiktas.

## Tuesday, October 14

### [Turk Telekom Ankara 79-72 Buducnost VOLI Podgorica](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/turk-telekom-ankara-buducnost-voli-podgorica/U2025/27/)

Turk Telekom claimed a much-needed first home win of the EuroCup season, defeating Buducnost 79-72 at Ankara Sports Hall in a well-rounded team performance. In a team effort where multiple players contributed, Kyle Allman stood out with 16 points and 4 assists for a PIR of 19, setting the tone on both ends of the floor.

Marko Simonovic added 15 points along with 5 rebounds, while Kris Bankston provided 10 points and 5 rebounds and Kyle Alexander finished with 10 points and 7 rebounds. For Buducnost, Skyler Mays had 21 points and both Yogi Ferrell, Nikola Tanaskovic and Fletcher Magee each contributed 10.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">Evimizde parkeden galip ayrılıyoruz! 💪<br><br>Maç sonucu: Türk Telekom 79 - 72 Buducnost VOLI Pogdorica <a href="https://t.co/i9GVbtVMuQ">pic.twitter.com/i9GVbtVMuQ</a></p>&mdash; Türk Telekom Basketbol (@TT_Basketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/TT_Basketbol/status/1978166523517665729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### [Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana 80-59 Aris Thessaloniki Betsson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/cedevita-olimpija-ljubljana-aris-thessaloniki-betsson/U2025/24/)

Cedevita Olimpija remained perfect on the young EuroCup season by fighting past Aris 80-59 at home. Cedevita used a 15-6 surge in the third quarter to grab a 16-point lead and then made 3 straight triples in the final frame to secure a 3-0 mark in Group A. Umoja Gibson paced the home side with 19 points while Joseph Girard had 16 points and Aleksej Nikolic added 15 points.

Aris committed 21 turnovers in dropping to 2-1 with Elijah Mitrou-Long scoring a team-high 19 points. The Greek side’s top scorer, Bryce Jones, was held to just 6 points - 15 below his average going into the game. 

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">FULL TIME | 3/3 in the <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EuroCup</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZmajevaDruzina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZmajevaDruzina</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DragonFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DragonFamily</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoadToGreatness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoadToGreatness</a> <a href="https://t.co/IvkM4oFaRx">pic.twitter.com/IvkM4oFaRx</a></p>&mdash; Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana - English (@KKCedOL_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKCedOL_EN/status/1978166443117093316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### [Veolia Towers Hamburg 85-106 Bahcesehir College Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/game-center/2025-26/veolia-towers-hamburg-bahcesehir-college-istanbul/U2025/23/)

Bahcesehir recovered from early struggles in the first half to score 60 points in the second, eventually defeating Hamburg comfortably, 85-106. The win took Marko Barac’s team to 3-0 for their EuroCup campaign, while the Towers fell to 0-3.

Despite shooting 7% from three-point land in the first half, the Istanbul-based team transformed for the second, in which they took advantage of their opponents foul troubles, which ultimately played a decisive part in the result. Bahcesehir recorded 27-points off turnovers and 17 fast-break points. Caleb Homesley and Malachi Flynn recorded 21 points, while Tyler Cavanaugh put in a well-rounded performance of 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists to inspire his team to victory.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">🔥 THAT’S ANOTHER DUB!<br><br>BKT EuroCup | 3. Hafta | Maç Sonucu<br>🏀 Veolia Towers Hamburg 85 – 106 Bahçeşehir Kolej<br><br>• Caleb Homesley: 21 sayı, 3 ribaund, 4 asist<br>• Malachi Flynn: 21 sayı, 3 ribaund, 2 asist<br>• Tyler Cavanaugh: 16 sayı, 7 ribaund, 5 asist <br>• Trevion Williams:11… <a href="https://t.co/T41lKIVGuR">pic.twitter.com/T41lKIVGuR</a></p>&mdash; Bahçeşehir Koleji Spor Kulübü (@BKBasketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/BKBasketbol/status/1978184092945362982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


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