The season's first Istanbul derby will see Efes (7-9) attempt to become the first team to defeat Sarunas Jasikevicius during his Fenerbahce (9-7) tenure.
Sarunas Jasikevicius, Fenerbahce: 'Big game for us'
Seasons
3 Dk okuma
Regular Season
Round 17 of 34
Regular Season
Anadolu Efes IstanbulEFS
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Fenerbahce Beko IstanbulFBB
Overview
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Efes is looking to bounce back from a home loss to Baskonia despite 23 points from star guard Shane Larkin, who has now poured in at least 20 points in five of his last seven appearances. His long-range scoring threat will be met by Scottie Wilbekin, who has hit top form with 5 three-pointers drained in each of the two games. Fener’s trio of victories under Jasikevicius have come via improved offensive output directed by Nick Calathes, who dished 13 assists to help overcome ALBA last week, so Efes needs to improve its defensive average of 86.9 points allowed, which is third-most in the league.
Erdem Can, Efes head coach
"Fenerbahce Beko come here having won their last three games. They have a good rhythm. We also need to start a new series by winning again. It will be important for us to fight tough and aggressive at our home court."
Sarunas Jasikevicius, Fenerbahce head coach
"Big game for us. Obviously Anadolu Efes, it’s a huge rivalry for the Istanbul derby. I have a lot of respect for their coaching and for their players who have been champions. Playing on the road is always difficult. For sure we need to have a really good game in order to get a win on a tough court like this."
Rodrigue Beaubois, Efes player
"We are not happy with the way we have been playing lately, but games against Fenerbahce Beko are always special, so it will be a great opportunity for us to come together, fight and do everything we can to try to get the win."
Sertac Sanli, Fenerbahce player
"A very challenging and important game awaits us. We have been winning three games in a row in the EuroLeague. We got what we wanted from the double week, but this time we know that we will be facing a very good team that needs the win as much as we do. We must stick to our game plan for 40 minutes and be ready to contribute as soon as we step on the court. A very competitive and enjoyable fight awaits us. I hope we will be the winner."