Fenerbahce stopped ALBA's fluency
Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul defeated ALBA Berlin 101-86 at Ulker Sports and Event Hall in Round 23. Being able to play at a higher rhythm than its opponent made the difference in this game.
Fenerbahce was more aggressive in this game, attacking the rim more often. The hosts drew 23 fouls and went to the free-throw line more often, hitting 20-of-24 attempts (83.3% FT). On the other hand, ALBA drew just 17 fouls and struggled from the charity stripe, burying just 8-of-13 attempts (61.5%).
The hosts also managed to stop ALBA's ball circulation after the break. ALBA recorded as many as 19 assists before halftime and was on course to set a new all-time Turkish Airlines EuroLeague record; Real Madrid holds it with 36 assists against Strasbourg on December 17, 2015. Fenerbahce, however, only allowed ALBA to dish 8 assists in the second half. ALBA finished the game with twice as many turnovers, 16, as Fenerbahce, 8, in another important key to this game.