Name: Top 10 Plays | RS Round 23 | 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague
Channel: Euroleague Basketball

The Lithuanian team gave its playoff hopes a massive boost with last week’s dominant victory over Gran Canaria, when big man [Marek Blazevic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/marek-blazevic/008186/) was unstoppable as he netted 27 points alongside 6 rebounds. Trento also won big last time out, putting 100 points on the board against Joventut, and Blazevic faces a good battle against rising star [Saliou Niang](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/saliou-niang/012687/), who's averaged a PIR of 16.3 over the last three games and looks better every week. Wolves won 88-83 when the teams met in Round 8 and another win would only boost its chances of playoff progression.

GAME NOTES

\- Wolves held off Trento 88-83 in Round 8 behind 23 points from Andrew Andrews in what was the first ever meeting between these sides.

\- Wolves forward Matas Jogela posted his first – and to date only – double-double in the EuroCup against Trento in Round 8 with 10 points and a career-high 12 rebounds.

\- Trento forward Eigirdas Zukauskas scored a season-high 21 points in Round 8 against Wolves.

\- Zukauskas spent the previous two seasons with Wolves and was a teammate of much of the club’s current roster.

\-  Zukauskas has played alongside Wolves players Kristupis Zemaitis, Matas Jogela and Marek Blazevic on the Lithuanian national team.

\- Zukauskas was a teammate of Wolves forward Regimantas Miniotas at Lithuanian club Prienai during the 2017-18 season.

Game Videos

GAME FACTS

### Dolomiti Energia Trento

 

**Streaks**

Trento guard Toto Forray has made 13 consecutive free throws.

Jordan Ford has scored 15 or more points in seven straight games.

Ford has posted PIRs of 11 or more in seven straight games.

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

Anthony Lamb has scored at least 10 points in eight straight games.

Lamb has posted PIRs of 11 or more in five straight games.

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

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

Selom Mawugbe has had at least 1 block in seven of his last eight games.

Eigirdas Zukauskas has made at least 1 three-pointer in seven of his last eight games.

Myles Cale has scored at least 11 points in nine straight games.

Cale has made at least 1 three-pointer in six of his last seven games.

 

**Player Records against Opponent**

Eigirdas Zukauskas posted his career high in Index Rating with 21 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Eigirdas Zukauskas posted his career high in Points with 21 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Myles Cale posted his career high in Time played with 31:05 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Andrea Pecchia posted his career high in Total rebounds with 8 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Andrea Pecchia posted his career high in Defensive rebounds with 7 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Eigirdas Zukauskas posted his career high in Free throws made with 5 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Jordan Ford posted his career high in Free throws made with 7 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Eigirdas Zukauskas posted his career high in 3-pointers made with 4 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Quinn Ellis posted his career high in 2-pointers made with 5 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

Myles Cale posted his career high in 3-pointers made with 4 for Dolomiti Energia Trento against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

 

**Team Record**

Dolomiti Energia Trento recorded its highest team Defensive Rebounds total in EuroCup play this season, 31, against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius on november 12, 2024.

 

**Season Rankings**

Jordan Ford is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average points with 16,5 per game.

Selom Mawugbe is ranked seventh among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Blocks with 1 per game.

Jordan Ford is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers made with 2,3 per game.

Jordan Ford is ranked fifth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Field goals made with 5,8 per game.

 

**All-time Rankings**

Toto Forray is ranked fourth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 154 steals for his career.

Toto Forray is ranked first on the all-time EuroCup charts with 146 game played for his career.

 

 

### Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius

 

**Streaks**

Wolves guard Anthony Cowan has scored at least 15 points seven of his last eight games.

Cowan has made multiple three-pointers in seven of his last eight games.

Cowan had PIRs of 12 or more in nine straight games.

Tra'Shawn Thurman has pulled down 5 or more rebounds in four of his last five games.

Marek Blazevic has scored at least 10 points in four of his last five games.

Blazevic has PIRs of 14 or more in four of his last five games.

Blazevic has had at least 1 steal in four of his last five games.

Matas Jogela has made at least 1 three-pointer in four of his last five games.

 

**Player Records against Opponent**

Andrew Andrews posted his career high in 3-pointers made with 6 for Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius against Dolomiti Energia Trento on november 12, 2024.

Arnoldas Kulboka posted his career high in Steals with 3 for Promitheas Patras against Dolomiti Energia Trento on january 11, 2023.

Matas Jogela posted his career high in Index Rating with 22 for Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius against Dolomiti Energia Trento on november 12, 2024.

Matas Jogela posted his career high in Total rebounds with 12 for Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius against Dolomiti Energia Trento on november 12, 2024.

Matas Jogela posted his career high in 2-pointers made with 4 for Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius against Dolomiti Energia Trento on november 12, 2024.

Matas Jogela posted his career high in Defensive rebounds with 11 for Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius against Dolomiti Energia Trento on november 12, 2024.

Kristupas Zemaitis posted his career high in Free throws made with 5 for Lietkabelis Panevezys against Dolomiti Energia Trento on february 2, 2022.

 

**Team Record**

Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius recorded its highest team Defensive Rebounds total in EuroCup play this season, 35, against Dolomiti Energia Trento on november 12, 2024.

Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius recorded its highest team Total Rebounds total in EuroCup play this season, 48, against Dolomiti Energia Trento on november 12, 2024.

 

**Season Rankings**

Anthony Cowan Jr is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average index rating with 19,5 per game.

Anthony Cowan Jr is ranked fifth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average points with 16,3 per game.

Anthony Cowan Jr is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assists with 5,8 per game.

Anthony Cowan Jr is ranked second among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Free Throws Made with 5,9 per game.

Andrew Andrews is ranked seventh among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Free Throws Made with 4,3 per game.

Marek Blazevic is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 2-pointers % with 71,1% per game.

Anthony Cowan Jr is ranked sixth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers made with 2,3 per game.

Marek Blazevic is ranked third among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Field goals % with 71,1% per game.

Marek Blazevic is ranked first among qualified EuroCup players this season in average True Shooting % with 72,6% per game.

Kristupas Zemaitis is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assist-Turnover ratio with 333% per game.

Game News

Wolves (8-8) will try to force their way into the top six with a trip to face already-eliminated Trento (6-10).

Game Notes and Facts: Trento vs. Wolves

Dolomiti Energia Trento v Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius (2025-01-28T19:00:00.000Z)

Round 24 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague offers a thrilling set of games, culminating with one of the world’s most passionate derbies on Friday night. This is what we can look forward to...

Round 24 at a glance: Into the final third of the season!

Round 24 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague offers a thrilling set of games, culminating with one of the world’s most passionate derbies on Friday night. This is what we can look forward to...

## Thursday, January 30, 2025

### Zalgiris Kaunas vs. FC Bayern Munich (19:00 CET)

Inconsistent Zalgiris (11-12) will look to revive its playoff hopes by prevailing in a visit from a Bayern team (13-10) aiming to collect back-to-back road wins following its [Round 23 success at ALBA](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/edwards-obst-combine-for-55-in-bayerns-84-99-win-at-alba/). After failing to score a single field goal in the fourth quarter of last week’s capitulation to Panathinaikos, the home team will look to quickly regain confidence by making a strong start. Bayern’s attack will be spearheaded by [Round 23 MVP](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/round-23-mvp-carsen-edwards-fc-bayern-munich/) [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/), who faces an intriguing backcourt tussle with his former Bayern teammate [Sylvain Francisco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sylvain-francisco/007975/). Edwards won the scoring duel between the pair 24-20 in Round 8, helping his team edge [a 77-74 decision](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/bayern-holds-off-zalgiris-77-74-to-climb-atop-the-table/), so Zalgiris will be targeting a winning margin of at least 4 points to claim the head-to-head advantage.

### Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv vs. ALBA Berlin (20:05 CET)

Maccabi (6-17) will look to win two consecutive games for the first time all season with a visit from rock-bottom but still competitive ALBA (3-20). The Israeli champion boosted its confidence with a solid [success over Zvezda](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/sharpshooting-maccabi-rolls-over-crvena-zvezda-85-73/) last week and will hope that veteran leader [John DiBartolomeo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/john-dibartolomeo/007990/) can deliver another big night after netting 15 points on 5-of-7 three-point shooting in that game. Maccabi can certainly count on creativity from its backcourt, with league-leading assister [Tamir Blatt](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tamir-blatt/011193/) (7.4 assists per game) and [Rokas Jokubaitis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/rokas-jokubaitis/007519/) (12.2 points and 5.3 assists per night) both in good form. ALBA also possesses plenty of backcourt talent, with [Matteo Spagnolo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/matteo-spagnolo/008173/) (10.4 ppg.), [Gabriele Procida](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/gabriele-procida/008384/) (10.4) and [Martin Hermannsson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/martin-hermannsson/008780/) (10.7) all averaging in double digits scoring, so it should be a fast-moving and entertaining spectacle.

### Paris Basketball vs. LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (20:30 CET)

The French derby will see two ambitious teams meet for a crucial showdown when Paris (13-9) welcomes ASVEL (11-12). The visiting team will draw plenty of confidence from last week’s [solid victory over Barcelona](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/theo-maledon-leads-the-way-as-asvel-downs-barcelona-100-94/), which saw [Theo Maledon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/theo-maledon/007027/) (22.8 average PIR, third best in the league) again excel with 18 points and 9 assists. The hosts will counter him with its own MVP candidate, [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/), who has maintained his consistency despite his team’s recent troubles and ranks just behind Maledon with an average PIR of 22.4. ASVEL also has the incentive of trying to lock down the head-to-head advantage after triumphing [98-93 in the Round 15](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/asvel-ends-paris-unbeaten-run-in-all-french-rivalry-series-thriller-98-93/) meeting between the teams, partly thanks to [Neal Sako](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/neal-sako/010545/)’s dominance of the paint, netting 14 points without a miss from the field plus 7 rebounds.

Round 24 Head-to-Head: Hifi vs. Maledon

### EA7 Emporio Armani Milan vs. Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (20:30 CET)

Injury-hit Milan (12-11) will hope to welcome back reinforcements for a testing visit from reigning champ Panathinaikos (14-9), which needs a win to maintain its position in the top four. The Greens will hope for more inside dominance from [Wenyen Gabriel](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/wenyen-gabriel/013383/) after his [breakout performance](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/wenyen-gabriel-rose-to-atamans-challenge-with-devastating-second-half/) in last week’s sensational [comeback triumph over Zalgiris](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/panathinaikos-stuns-zalgiris-with-huge-comeback-win-89-76/), pairing 15 points with 8 blocks, and Milan needs center [Freddy Gillespie](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/freddie-gillespie/011941/) to add more scoring after only managing 2 points along with 10 rebounds in last week’s [heavy loss at Efes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/coach-banchi-celebrates-first-win-as-efes-thrashes-milan-110-66/). Shooting star [Neno Dimitrijevic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/neno-dimitrijevic/006085/) also needs to emerge from a slump after only averaging 4.7 points over the last three games, especially with Greens’ guard [Kendrick Nunn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kendrick-nunn/012774/) fully recovered from his own dip in form after [scoring 26](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/kendrick-nunns-momentum-changer-sparked-historic-comeback-for-panathinaikos/) [against Zalgiris](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/panathinaikos-stuns-zalgiris-with-huge-comeback-win-89-76/) last time out.

### Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz vs. FC Barcelona (20:30 CET)

Expect maximum intensity from an all-Spanish showdown as Baskonia (9-14) looks to boost its fading playoff ambitions against an equally hungry Barcelona (13-10). The visiting team – led by former Baskonia coach Joan Penarroya – needs to bounce back from [last week’s loss at ASVEL](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/theo-maledon-leads-the-way-as-asvel-downs-barcelona-100-94/), where the Blaugrana’s occasional tendency to lapse into leaky defense again resurfaced with 100 points conceded. A key battle will take place at power forward between [Chima Moneke](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/chima-moneke/012201/) and [Jabari Parker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jabari-parker/012745/): the Baskonia star continued his great season with a double-double of 14 points and 10 boards in last week’s heartbreaking [last-second loss at Real](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/hezonjas-three-leads-real-past-baskonia-90-89/), while Parker again demonstrated his shooting power with 18 points on 5-of-7 three-point shooting in the loss at ASVEL. Barca also needs to contain [Nikos Rogkavopoulos](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nikolaos-rogkavopoulos/011085/), who has two double-doubles in his last four games.

Round 24 Head-to-Head: Moneke vs. Parker

## Friday, January 31, 2025

### Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul vs. Virtus Segafredo Bologna (18:30 CET)

Fenerbahce (15-7) will hunt a sixth straight victory with a visit from a Virtus team (7-16) whose playoff chances are looking increasingly slender. The Italian team couldn’t withstand [a late push from Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/monaco-rallies-from-21-points-down-defeats-virtus-80-86/) at home last week, conceding 30 fourth-quarter points, and will need to compete for the full 40 minutes against a Fener team coming off [a strong road win at Olympiacos](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-stands-strong-to-down-olympiacos-77-87/). Virtus will offer a long-range scoring threat through [Alessandro Pajola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/alessandro-pajola/006739/), who has struck from long-range in 10 consecutive games. The hosts will hope that recent signing [Errick McCollom](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/errick-mccollum/005216/) will continue to settle well into the backcourt, after offering a solid 12 points in Piraeus, while the return to fitness of [Arturs Zagars](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/arturs-zagars/008104/) has also added depth to Saras Jasikevicius’s previous threadbare guard options.

### AS Monaco vs. Real Madrid (19:00 CET)

After ending a three-game losing run by making an [impressive comeback against Virtus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/monaco-rallies-from-21-points-down-defeats-virtus-80-86/) last week, Monaco (14-9) will look to protect its position in the top four with a visit from direct rival Real (13-10). An undoubted highlight will be a personal battle between two of the league’s most talented guards, with [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/) and [Facu Campazzo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/facundo-campazzo/005928/) both heading into the showdown in strong form. James netted 24 points – his highest total of the season – to inspire the turnaround at Virtus, while Campazzo combined 22 points with 6 assists to lead his team to a [victory over Baskonia](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/hezonjas-three-leads-real-past-baskonia-90-89/) that was secured by [Mario Hezonja](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mario-hezonja/003108/)’s dramatic [buzzer-beating game-winner](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/mario-hezonja-decided-an-instant-classic/). Real coach Chus Mateo could bolster his roster by giving debuts to new signings [Bruno Fernando](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/bruno-fernando-signs-for-real-madrid-baloncesto/) and [Dennis Smith](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/real-madrid-baloncesto-signs-ex-nba-guard-dennis-smith-jr/).

Round 24 Head-to-Head: Blossomgame vs. Hezonja

### Olympiacos Piraeus vs. Anadolu Efes Istanbul (20:15 CET)

After having a seven-game winning run snapped by [last week’s home loss](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-stands-strong-to-down-olympiacos-77-87/) to Fenerbahce, league leader Olympiacos (16-7) will look to start another streak with a visit from Efes (11-12). The Turkish team arrives with confidence renewed after ending its own losing run by [thrashing Milan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/coach-banchi-celebrates-first-win-as-efes-thrashes-milan-110-66/) and will hope that sharpshooter [Rodrigue Beaubois](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/rodrigue-beaubois/006590/) can stay hot after pouring in 18 points, his best tally in 11 games. Another plus was a return to form by power forward [Rolands Smits](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/rolands-smits/007109/) with his best PIR of the season (17), and this week he faces the biggest possible test with a matchup against [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/). Reds coach Georgios Bartzokas will want his team to recover its defensive toughness, after struggling to stop Fener’s rhythm last week in the absence of [Thomas Walkup](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/thomas-walkup/008855/).

Round 24 Head-to-Head: Williams-Goss vs. Larkin

### Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade vs. Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (20:30 CET)

With both Partizan (12-11) and Zvezda (13-10) determined to boost their push for the playoffs and currently separated by just one win, the latest edition of the Belgrade derby promises to be more exciting and tense than ever. Partizan arrives in better form with three straight victories, while Zvezda has slipped down the standings with two losses out of three. Zeljko Obradovic’s men took [a 77-89 victory](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/partizan-outshines-zvezda-77-89-in-belgrade-derby/) when the teams met in Round 11 behind 21 points from [Carlik Jones](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carlik-jones/013369/). He faces an exciting backcourt matchup with fit-again Zvezda veteran [Milos Teodosic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/milos-teodosic/jdr/), who announced his full recovery from injury with 15 points and 5 assists in [last week’s loss to Maccabi](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/sharpshooting-maccabi-rolls-over-crvena-zvezda-85-73/). Partizan will look to limit Zvezda’s shooters like [Isaiah Canaan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/isaiah-canaan/010612/) (10.4 points per game) through its excellent perimeter defense, having allowed opponents to convert just 32.7% of three-pointers so far – second-best in the league.

Round 24 Head-to-Head: Jones vs. Bolomboy

The race for the postseason is heating up with each passing week

Zalgiris Kaunas v FC Bayern Munich (2025-01-30T18:00:00.000Z)

Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv v ALBA Berlin (2025-01-30T19:05:00.000Z)

Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz v FC Barcelona (2025-01-30T19:30:00.000Z)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2025-01-30T19:30:00.000Z)

Paris Basketball v LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (2025-01-30T19:30:00.000Z)

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul v Virtus Segafredo Bologna (2025-01-31T17:30:00.000Z)

Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade v Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (2025-01-31T19:30:00.000Z)

Olympiacos Piraeus v Anadolu Efes Istanbul (2025-01-31T19:15:00.000Z)

AS Monaco v Real Madrid (2025-01-31T18:00:00.000Z)

With just two rounds remaining in the regular season, playoff places and seeded status could be decided in Round 17 of the BKT EuroCup. Here's your guide to Tuesday and Wednesday's action.

Round 17 at a glance: Will the playoff floodgates open this week?

With just two rounds remaining in the regular season, playoff places and seeded status could be decided in Round 17 of the BKT EuroCup. Here's your guide to Tuesday and Wednesday's action.

## Tuesday, January 28, 2025

### Bahcesehir College Istanbul vs. ratiopharm Ulm (17:00 CET)

Group A winner Bahcesehir (13-3) will look to gear up for the playoffs against an Ulm team (9-7) fighting to stay in the all-important top six. The German team has dipped in form at the worst time, losing three straight games, including last week’s potentially costly home defeat to Buducnost. Bahcesehir is coming off an 84-77 loss against Hapoel, but could be forgiven for taking its foot off the gas with first place already secured. The all-action [Sehmus Hazer](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/sehmus-hazer/011201/) was key when the teams last met, combining 20 points with 5 assists and 4 steals to propel a 72-80 Bahcesehir road win. Ulm, which would clinch a playoff berth with a win, desperately needs to improve its defense this week, having allowed at least 83 points in six consecutive games.

### Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana vs. Valencia Basket (18:30 CET)

Second-placed Cedevita (10-6) will look for a vital home win to retain that position with a visit from group winner Valencia (14-2). Facing the competition’s most prolific offense, the Slovenian team needs to tighten up after allowing 20 assists in last week’s loss at Bourg. Cedevita guard [DJ Stewart](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/dj-stewart/012700/) is one of the best ball thieves in the EuroCup, snaring 3 steals last week, and that pressure will be crucial to disrupt the rhythm of Valencia orchestrators [Stefan Jovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/stefan-jovic/004863/) and [Jean Montero](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jean-montero/010042/), who combined for 16 assists in last week’s thumping of Aris. The Spanish team’s offensive potential was on full display when the teams met in Round 8, winning 109-80 with seven different double-digit scorers, so Cedevita knows how tough its task is.

Round 17 Head-to-Head: Jones vs. Jones

### Dolomiti Energia Trento vs. Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius (20:00 CET)

Wolves (8-8) will try to force their way into the top six with a trip to face already-eliminated Trento (6-10). The Lithuanian team gave its playoff hopes a massive boost with last week’s dominant victory over Gran Canaria, when big man [Marek Blazevic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/marek-blazevic/008186/) was unstoppable as he netted 27 points alongside 6 rebounds. Trento also won big last time out, putting 100 points on the board against Joventut, and Blazevic faces a good battle against rising star [Saliou Niang](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/saliou-niang/012687/), who's averaged a PIR of 16.3 over the last three games and looks better every week. Wolves won 88-83 when the teams met in Round 8 and another win would only boost its chances of playoff progression.

Round 17 Head-to-Head: Mawugbe vs Blazevic

## Wednesday, January 29, 2025

### Turk Telekom Ankara vs. Umana Reyer Venice (17:30 CET)

Two of the five teams tied for third place in an incredibly competitive Group B go head to head, with Turk Telekom (9-7) welcoming Reyer (9-7). The hosts need a 9-point victory to also claim the potentially decisive head-to-head advantage, with Reyer winning 75-67 in Round 8’s first-ever meeting between the teams behind 10 points and 15 rebounds from dynamic big man [Mfiondu Kabengele](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/mfiondu-kabengele/012796/). So Turk Telekom will need another strong game from its own in-form center [Yoan Makoundou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/yoan-makoundou/011935/), who's averaged 15.0 points over the last three games. The presence of Kabengele helps make Reyer the third-best rebounding team in the competition (37.2 boards per game), so Turk Telekom will have to fight hard to gain extra scoring opportunities for an offense that has misfired in the last three games, averaging just 78.7 points.

Round 17 Head-to-Head: Alexander vs. Kabengele

### Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv vs. Trefl Sopot (18:00 CET)

Hapoel (10-6) will look to stay in Group A's second place by taking a home win against the competition's worst team, Trefl (1-13). The Israeli team has won four of its last five, last week downing group winner Bahcesehir thanks to 19 points and an impressive 7 assists from big man [Johnathan Motley](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/johnathan-motley/011157/). Another win would guarantee Hapoel at a minimum home-court advantage in the eighthfinals and a win coupled with a Gran Canaria loss would wrap up second place for Coach Itoudis's side. Considering the stakes and the talent gap between the teams, a Trefl win would be a massive surprise, but playmaker [Jakub Schenk](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jakub-schenk/013298/) showed he is capable of exploiting any defensive weaknesses by combining 15 points with 9 assists in last week’s loss at Besiktas. Hapoel powered to a 64-93 road win when the teams met in Round 8 behind 21 points from [Marcus Foster](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/marcus-foster/010386/), and will expect similar dominance this week.

### 7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys vs. U-BT Cluj-Napoca (18:00 CET)

Eliminated Lietkabelis (4-12) will look to upset the playoff dreams of a Cluj team (9-7) still fighting to claim second place in Group B. The Romanian champion gained its third win in four with a solid victory over Turk Telekom last week as [DJ Seeley](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/dennis-seeley/004862/) continued his outstanding form by sinking 8-of-9 three-pointers in his 31 points. Cluj also boasts the competition’s top-ranked distributor [Zavier Simpson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/zavier-simpson/013302/) (7.2 assists per night), so there’s clearly a big defensive challenge for a Lietkabelis team that has lost four in a row, most recently against lowly Hamburg. New signing [Djordje Gagic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/djordje-gagic/profile/004229/) did excel in that game with 27 points and the center will need to be at his best again.

### Aris Midea Thessaloniki vs. Veolia Towers Hamburg (19:00 CET)

A battle to avoid finishing with Group B's wooden spoon will take place between Aris (3-13) and Hamburg (4-12). The teams head into the game in contrasting spirits, with Aris showing arguably the worst form in competition history after losing by 41 points in two consecutive games. Avoiding another defeat will not be straightforward against a Hamburg team that last week climbed off the foot of the standings by overcoming Lietkabelis 84-77 on the back of 22 points from [Johnathan Stove](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/johnathan-stove/013503/), who has scored in double digits in all seven games for the team. Hamburg also won easily when the teams last met, 93-69, so it can mathematically avoid last place by prevailing in Greece on Wednesday.

### Buducnost VOLI Podgorica vs. Joventut Badalona (19:00 CET)

Buducnost (8-8) will be determined to stay in the top six - and keep its top-four hopes alive - by defeating already-eliminated Joventut (6-10). The Montenegrin team is on a hot streak after winning four of its last five games, and will look to exploit a Joventut defense that allowed 100 points in last week’s loss against Trento. Buducnost will be confident after taking the Round 8 meeting between the teams 78-72, courtesy of 28 points from [Devon Dotson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/devon-durrell-dotson/013285/). Buducnost will hope [Rasheed Sulaimon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/rasheed-sulaimon/011150/) stays hot after netting multiple triples in four of the last five games.

### Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse vs. Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (19:30 CET)

It's third against fourth with everything to play for between two teams that could finish anywhere between second and seventh, with Bourg (9-7) hosting Hapoel Jerusalem (9-7). The hosts will be confident after gaining a strong win over Cedevita last week, when big man [Maksim Salash](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/maksim-salash/004525/) delivered his best performance of the season with 22 points and 7 rebounds. He faces a good battle with [Gabriel Chachasvili](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/gabriel-chachashvili/013279/), whose double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds helped secure an 86-77 victory for Jerusalem when the teams met in Round 8. The visitor’s quest for a key road win will also be led by guard [Khadeen Carrington](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/khadeen-carrington/008912/), who has scored at least 15 points in the last five games.

Round 17 Head-to-Head: Castaneda vs. Harper

### Dreamland Gran Canaria vs. Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul (21:00 CET)

Gran Canaria (10-6) will look to keep its top-two hopes alive by taking on another team still fighting for an eighthfinals bye, Besiktas (9-7). The Turkish team, which has lost four straight on the road, needs to win by 3 points or more to claim the potential head-to-head tiebreak advantage after Gran Canaria triumphed 74-76 in Istanbul in November. [Caleb Homesley](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/caleb-homesley/011251/) was key to that victory with 17 points and he will want to stay hot after netting 20 in last week’s loss to Wolves. Besiktas has won two games in a row and has [Jonah Mathews](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jonah-mathews/011936/) in top form with 27 and 21 points in those triumphs. A Besiktas victory will see it formally clinch a ticket to the playoffs. 

Round 17 Head-to-Head: Homesley vs. Allman

The penultimate round of the regular season is going to be full of drama

Dreamland Gran Canaria v Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul (2025-01-29T20:00:00.000Z)

Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse v Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (2025-01-29T18:30:00.000Z)

Aris Midea Thessaloniki v Veolia Towers Hamburg (2025-01-29T18:00:00.000Z)

Buducnost VOLI Podgorica v Joventut Badalona (2025-01-29T18:00:00.000Z)

Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv v Trefl Sopot (2025-01-29T17:00:00.000Z)

7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys v U-BT Cluj-Napoca (2025-01-29T17:00:00.000Z)

Turk Telekom Ankara v Umana Reyer Venice (2025-01-29T16:30:00.000Z)

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana v Valencia Basket (2025-01-28T17:30:00.000Z)

Bahcesehir College Istanbul v ratiopharm Ulm (2025-01-28T16:00:00.000Z)

Facing the competition’s most prolific offense, the Slovenian team needs to tighten up after allowing 20 assists in last week’s loss at Bourg. Cedevita guard [DJ Stewart](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/dj-stewart/012700/) is one of the best ball thieves in the EuroCup, snaring 3 steals last week, and that pressure will be crucial to disrupt the rhythm of Valencia orchestrators [Stefan Jovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/stefan-jovic/004863/) and [Jean Montero](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jean-montero/010042/), who combined for 16 assists in last week’s thumping of Aris. The Spanish team’s offensive potential was on full display when the teams met in Round 8, winning 109-80 with seven different double-digit scorers, so Cedevita knows how tough its task is.

GAME NOTES

\- Valencia plastered Cedevita 109-80 in Round 8 as Josep Puerto led seven Valencia scorers in double figures with 15 points.

\- Cedevita holds a 4-3 advantage in head-to-head games against Valencia.

\- Valencia guard Brancou Badio was a teammate of Cedevita forward Devin Robinson over the past two seasons at Spanish side Basquet Manresa.

\- Valencia guard Stefan Jovic and Cedevita’s Jaka Blazic were teammates at Crvena Zvezda Belgrade during the 2014-15 season.

GAME FACTS

### Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana

 

**Streaks**

Devin Robinson has scored in double figures in 12 of his last 13 games.

Robinson has had PIRs in double figures in 12 of his last 13 games.

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

Devante Jones has made at least 1 three-pointer in five straight games.

Jones has scored 10 or more points in four of his last five games.

Joan Beringer has had at least 1 block in five of his last six games.

DJ Stewart has scored 13 or more points in four of his last five games.

Stewart has PIRs of 15 or more in four of his last five games.

Stewart has pulled down at least 5 rebounds in four of his last five games.

 

**Player Records against Opponent**

Ziga Daneu posted his career high in Index Rating with 8 for Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana against Valencia Basket on november 12, 2024.

Joan Beringer posted his career high in Time played with 26:02 for Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana against Valencia Basket on november 12, 2024.

Devante Jones posted his career high in Total rebounds with 5 for Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana against Valencia Basket on november 12, 2024.

 

**Team Record**

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana individual single-game club record of 12 Free throws made was set by Deividas Gailius, against Valencia Basket Club on december 4, 2013.

 

**Season Rankings**

Devin Robinson is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average points with 15,5 per game.

Joan Beringer is ranked ninth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Blocks with 0,9 per game.

Devin Robinson is ranked second among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 2-pointers made with 5,6 per game.

Devante Jones is ranked second among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers % with 54,3% per game.

Devin Robinson is ranked second among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Field goals made with 6,2 per game.

Martinas Geben is ranked third among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assist-Turnover ratio with 350% per game.

Rok Radovic is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assist-Turnover ratio with 325% per game.

 

**All-time Rankings**

Andrija Stipanovic is ranked ninth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 1405 index rating for his career.

Jaka Blazic is ranked 10th on the all-time EuroCup charts with 1398 index rating for his career.

Jaka Blazic is ranked sixth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 1383 points for his career.

Andrija Stipanovic is ranked fifth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 533 total rebounds for his career.

Andrija Stipanovic is ranked third on the all-time EuroCup charts with 224 offensive rebounds for his career.

Jaka Blazic is ranked fifth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 359 defensive rebounds for his career.

Jaka Blazic is ranked fourth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 320 free throws made for his career.

Andrija Stipanovic is ranked second on the all-time EuroCup charts with 497 2-pointers made for his career.

Andrija Stipanovic is ranked fifth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 497 field goals made for his career.

Jaka Blazic is ranked seventh on the all-time EuroCup charts with 446 field goals made for his career.

 

 

### Valencia Basket

 

**Streaks**

Semi Ojeleye scored 10 or more points in 13 of his last 14 games.

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

Ojeleye has made multiple triples in eight of his last nine games.

Jean Montero has scored 11 or more points in seven of his last eight games.

Montero has double-digit PIRs in four straight games.

Montero has made at least 1 three-point shot in eight straight games.

Montero has made multiple three-pointers in seven of his last eight games.

Montero has collected at least 1 steal in eight straight games.

Brancou Badio has made at least 1 three-point shot in 13 straight games.

Badio has had PIRs in double figures in seven straight games.

Josep Puerto has made at least 1 three-point shot in 13 of his last 14 games.

Nate Sestina has made at least 1 three-point shot in seven straight games.

 

**Player Records against Opponent**

Matthew Costello posted his career high in Index Rating with 27 for Herbalife Gran Canaria against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 18, 2020.

Matthew Costello posted his career high in Assists with 6 for Herbalife Gran Canaria against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 18, 2020.

Nathan Reuvers posted his career high in Points with 12 for Valencia Basket against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

Nathan Reuvers posted his career high in Total rebounds with 7 for Valencia Basket against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

Nathan Reuvers posted his career high in 2-pointers made with 6 for Valencia Basket against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

Nathan Reuvers posted his career high in Offensive rebounds with 6 for Valencia Basket against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

Jean Montero posted his career high in 3-pointers made with 3 for Valencia Basket against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

Brancou Badio posted his career high in Free throws made with 4 for Valencia Basket against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

Xabi Lopez-Arostegui posted his career high in 2-pointers made with 4 for Valencia Basket against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

 

**Team Record**

Valencia Basket recorded its highest team Assists total in EuroCup play this season, 29, against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

Valencia Basket recorded its highest team Blocks total in EuroCup play this season, 6, against Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana on november 12, 2024.

 

**Season Rankings**

Jaime Pradilla is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Defensive Rebounds with 4,2 per game.

Stefan Jovic is ranked fifth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assists with 5,3 per game.

Jean Montero is ranked seventh among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assists with 5,2 per game.

Jean Montero is ranked second among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Steals with 1,9 per game.

Nathan Reuvers is ranked seventh among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Blocks with 1 per game.

Matthew Costello is ranked ninth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 2-pointers % with 70,4% per game.

Semi Ojeleye is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers made with 2,4 per game.

Stefan Jovic is ranked first among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assist-Turnover ratio with 492% per game.

 

**All-time Rankings**

Xabi Lopez-Arostegui is ranked fifth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 90,77% free throws % for his career.

Stefan Jovic is ranked second on the all-time EuroCup charts with 308,2% assists-turnovers ratio % for his career.

Second-placed Cedevita (10-6) will look for a vital home win to retain that position with a visit from group winner Valencia (14-2).

Game Notes and Facts: Cedevita vs. Valencia

The German team has dipped in form at the worst time, losing three straight games, including last week’s potentially costly home defeat to Buducnost. Bahcesehir is coming off an 84-77 loss against Hapoel, but could be forgiven for taking its foot off the gas with first place already secured. The all-action [Sehmus Hazer](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/sehmus-hazer/011201/) was key when the teams last met, combining 20 points with 5 assists and 4 steals to propel a 72-80 Bahcesehir road win. Ulm, which would clinch a playoff berth with a win, desperately needs to improve its defense this week, having allowed at least 83 points in six consecutive games.

GAME NOTES

\- Bahcesehir outlasted Ulm 72-80 in Round 8 behind 20 points from Sehmus Hazer in what was the first ever meeting between these sides.

\- Bahcesehir head coach Dejan Radovic coached Ulm guard Nelson Weidemann during the 2018-19 season at FC Bayern Munich.

\- Radovic coached Ulm guard Karim Jallow at the end of the 2017-18 season at FC Bayern Munich.

GAME FACTS

### Bahcesehir College Istanbul

 

**Streaks**

Jaleen Smith has made at least 1 three-pointer in eight of his last nine games.

Smith has scored at least 11 points in seven of his last eight games.

Tai Odiase had PIRs of 10 or more in 12 of his last 13 games.

Odiase has scored 10 or more rebounds in six straight games.

Odiase has pulled down 5 or more rebounds in five of his last six games.

Odiase has pulled down multiple offensive rebounds in six straight games.

CJ Massinburg has made at least 1 three-point shot in six straight games.

Sehmus Hazer had at least 1 steal in eight of his last nine games.

Tyler Cavanaugh has had PIRs in double figures in eight straight games.

Cavanaugh has had 5 or more rebounds in 11 straight games.

Cavanaugh has made at least 1 three-pointer in 12 of his last 13 games.

 

**Player Records against Opponent**

CJ Massinburg posted his career high in Total rebounds with 6 for Germani Brescia against ratiopharm Ulm on october 26, 2022.

Marko Simonovic posted his career high in Defensive rebounds with 5 for Bahcesehir College Istanbul against ratiopharm Ulm on november 13, 2024.

Mateusz Ponitka posted his career high in Index Rating with 29 for Bahcesehir College Istanbul against ratiopharm Ulm on november 13, 2024.

Mateusz Ponitka posted his career high in Assists with 8 for Bahcesehir College Istanbul against ratiopharm Ulm on november 13, 2024.

Mateusz Ponitka posted his career high in Time played with 33:58 for Lokomotiv Kuban Krasnodar against ratiopharm Ulm on january 16, 2019.

Sehmus Hazer posted his career high in Index Rating with 24 for Bahcesehir College Istanbul against ratiopharm Ulm on november 13, 2024.

Sehmus Hazer posted his career high in Steals with 4 for Bahcesehir College Istanbul against ratiopharm Ulm on november 13, 2024.

Sehmus Hazer posted his career high in 2-pointers made with 7 for Bahcesehir College Istanbul against ratiopharm Ulm on november 13, 2024.

CJ Massinburg posted his career high in Assists with 6 for Germani Brescia against ratiopharm Ulm on october 26, 2022.

 

**Season Rankings**

Tai Odiase is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average index rating with 17 per game.

Tyler Cavanaugh is ranked sixth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Total Rebounds with 6,4 per game.

Tai Odiase is ranked fifth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Offensive Rebounds with 2,5 per game.

Axel Bouteille is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Defensive Rebounds with 4,3 per game.

Tyler Cavanaugh is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Defensive Rebounds with 4,3 per game.

Jaleen Smith is ranked second among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assists with 6 per game.

Sehmus Hazer is ranked sixth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Steals with 1,6 per game.

Tai Odiase is ranked sixth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Blocks with 1,1 per game.

Tai Odiase is ranked 10th among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Free Throws Made with 3,8 per game.

Tai Odiase is ranked sixth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 2-pointers made with 5 per game.

Tyler Cavanaugh is ranked fourth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers % with 51,2% per game.

Tai Odiase is ranked 10th among qualified EuroCup players this season in average True Shooting % with 65,8% per game.

Sehmus Hazer is ranked seventh among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assist-Turnover ratio with 326% per game.

Jaleen Smith is ranked ninth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assist-Turnover ratio with 309% per game.

 

**All-time Rankings**

Axel Bouteille is ranked eighth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 445 field goals made for his career.

Tai Odiase is ranked eighth on the all-time EuroCup charts with 62,86% field goal % for his career.

Tai Odiase is ranked seventh on the all-time EuroCup charts with 64,21% true shooting % for his career.

 

 

### Ratiopharm Ulm

 

**Streaks**

Justinian Jessup has had double-digit PIRs in nine of his last 10 games.

Alfonso Plummer has made 21 consecutive free throws.

Nelson Weidemann has made at least 1 three-pointer in seven of his last eight games.

Weidemann has made 12 consecutive free throws.

Noa Essengue has had at least 1 steal in five of his last six games.

Essengue has pulled down 5 or more rebounds in four of his last five games.

Ben Saraf has had at least 1 steal in four of his last five games.

 

**Player Records against Opponent**

Alfonso Plummer posted his career high in Free throws made with 4 for ratiopharm Ulm against Bahcesehir College Istanbul on november 13, 2024.

Marcio Santos posted his career high in Offensive rebounds with 3 for ratiopharm Ulm against Bahcesehir College Istanbul on november 13, 2024.

Noa Essengue posted his career high in Defensive rebounds with 7 for ratiopharm Ulm against Bahcesehir College Istanbul on november 13, 2024.

 

**Season Rankings**

Noa Essengue is ranked 10th among qualified EuroCup players this season in average index rating with 16,5 per game.

Ben Saraf is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Assists with 4,9 per game.

Noa Essengue is ranked fifth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average Free Throws Made with 4,4 per game.

Alfonso Plummer is ranked third among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers made with 2,5 per game.

Justinian Jessup is ranked eighth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers made with 2,3 per game.

Marcio Santos is ranked ninth among qualified EuroCup players this season in average 3-pointers % with 48,4% per game.

 

**All-time Rankings**

Thomas Klepeisz is ranked third on the all-time EuroCup charts with 285,53% assists-turnovers ratio % for his career.

Group A winner Bahcesehir (13-3) will look to gear up for the playoffs against an Ulm team (9-7) fighting to stay in the all-important top six.

Game Notes and Facts: Bahcesehir vs. Ulm

Real Madrid currently has the largest differential in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague between the number of points it has scored at the rim and the number they have allowed — including free throws — defensively and is one of only a few teams building a meaningful advantage in that fashion.

Stats review: How owning the interior has led Real Madrid's recent rise

Don’t look now, but [Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/mad/) has climbed into the top six for the first time this season as *Los Blancos* have made real headway in their efforts to extend their streak of consecutive Turkish Airlines EuroLeague championship game appearances to four.  After a sluggish 6-9 start, the perennial power has won seven of its last eight games to build some momentum heading into the final third of the season.

While [a narrow home win over Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/hezonjas-three-leads-real-past-baskonia-90-89/) was not exactly a prime example, Real has set its baseline this season in the same place it has throughout its recent multi-season run of success: at the rim.

As the table above suggests, Real currently has the largest differential in the EuroLeague between the number of points they have scored at the rim and the number they have allowed — including free throws — defensively and is one of only a few teams building a meaningful advantage in that fashion. Not only that, but even after a lackluster start in the standings, that represents the largest mark the team has posted in a season in its recent run of championship game appearances.

With a total point differential of 64 for the season but 146 at the rim — including 125 with [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) on the floor — Real’s edge inside has been its cornerstone this year, often compensating for its shortcomings elsewhere. Even in a game where Tavares dealt with some foul trouble and the team conceded 21 offensive rebounds, Real still outscored Baskonia by 5 points at the basket. There’s no discounting the way Real’s interior play raises its floor in a season where only two wins separate third and 11th place in the standings.

While the Spanish club sits in a tier by itself, [Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/partizan-mozzart-bet-belgrade/par/) has been very imposing inside in its own right and [Anadolu Efes Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/anadolu-efes-istanbul/ist/) has built a meaningful advantage in close as well.  Partizan has shot a third-ranked 68% around the rim offensively.  Though its big men have been very effective inside, it has been the consistency of its guards that has bolstered the team's shooting and productivity around the rim.  Defensively, it has been the rotations to prevent shots at the rim entirely that have helped Partizan limit opponents’ points in the interior more than how it contests the shots that it does face in close.

The opposite is true of Efes, which leads the EuroLeague in blocks by a considerable margin. [Vincent Poirier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vincent-poirier/004887/) spearheads those efforts to put a lid on the rim, but a variety of players contribute, including several perimeter players.  Efes's big men have been driving the team's success inside, with Poirier and [Dan Oturu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/dan-oturu/012788/) combining to shoot 76% at the rim.

With nine teams checking in this season with a differential inside of plus-or-minus 2 points per game around the rim, it remains very difficult for teams to find a way to build a significant competitive advantage in the EuroLeague. That puts what Real has done in perspective and adds a degree of intrigue to what it accomplishes from here on out as the team continues to distance itself from early losses.

No team has been more effective – offensively or defensively – at the rim this season than Los Blancos

Hapoel Tel Aviv BC leads all teams as the most dangerous offensive team in the BKT EuroCup following the mid-season addition of Yam Madar

Stats review: Yam Madar has taken Hapoel's offensive efficiency to the next level

With only two rounds remaining in the BKT EuroCup Regular Season, the pressure is mounting as only four teams have secured their bid for the postseason. While the top seeds in both groups are decided, there is not a lot of certainty beyond that point — especially in Group B where the second postseason bye and every seed still remain up for grabs.

In Round 16, [Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/hapoel-shlomo-tel-aviv/roster/hta/?season=2024-25) secured what could be [a pivotal win](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/hapoel-knocks-off-bahcesehir-84-77/) in Group A when it defeated first-place [Bahcesehir College Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/bahcesehir-college-istanbul/roster/bah/?season=2024-25) to move into a tie for second place, where it holds a tiebreaker over [Dreamland Gran Canaria](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/dreamland-gran-canaria/roster/can/?season=2024-25).  After starting the year 4-3, the club has put itself in poll position for an automatic berth in the quarterfinals.

Hapoel’s turnaround can be traced to its rise as one of the EuroCup’s most efficient offensive teams.  As the table above suggests, it joins this season’s group leaders a tier above the rest of the field on that end of the floor. While it has a legitimate chance to finish the regular season atop this list, the 1.11 points per possession Hapoel has scored over its last nine games leads all teams as it has been the most dangerous offensive team in the EuroCup following the mid-season addition of [Yam Madar](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/yam-madar/011052/).

That efficiency was the difference in the win over Bahcesehir as it shot 56.8% inside the arc and 47.4% from deep to overcome a deficit in the possession battle. With the team's ball handlers scoring more than 10 points per 100 possessions more than the next most effective team in pick-and-rolls, Hapoel's guards have helped their season take a sharp turn that will be fascinating to follow in the coming weeks.

Yam Madar highlights, Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv, Rounds 10-16, 2024-25 EuroCup

Yam Madar is making things happen for Hapoel

Despite Hapoel’s recent run, there has been no denying [Valencia Basket](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/valencia-basket/roster/pam/?season=2024-25)’s complete dominance on the offensive end for long stretches this season.  Exceeding 100 points in 10 games so far, it has the most impressive combination of pace and efficiency of any team this decade. Attempting 84 more three-pointers than any other team while leading the EuroCup in three-point accuracy, Valencia remains an incredibly daunting matchup despite a pair of losses following an 11-0 start.

Bahcesehir has been nearly as efficient while taking the opposite approach. Playing at the EuroCup’s slowest pace, the Turkish club has seldom looked to operate quickly outside of obvious fastbreak situations.  Generating over half of its possessions in the half court out of pick-and-rolls while leading all teams in pick-and-roll efficiency, Bahcesehir has played to its strengths steadily all year.

[U-BT Cluj-Napoca](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/u-bt-cluj-napoca/roster/clu/?season=2024-25) and [Buducnost VOLI Podgorica](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/buducnost-voli-podgorica/roster/bud/?season=2024-25), like Hapoel, have both turned their seasons around after lackluster starts, but both teams find themselves in precarious spots heading into the regular season’s final games. Currently holding the last playoff seed in Group A, Buducnost has been one of the tougher teams to guard thanks to its ability to beat defenses in the midrange.  The matchup with [Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/wolves-vilnius/roster/wol/?season=2024-25) in Round 18 could be a win-or-go-home situation depending on how things shake out this week.

Cluj is one of five teams with a 9-7 record in Group B.  It does not lean heavily on one-on-one play, but its efficiency when attacking matchups has been a factor in its success on the offensive end. As the only one of the five teams fighting for four postseason spots who will not face one of the other four in the final two weeks, it will be interesting to see how the Romanian champion positions itself down the stretch.

Since the mid-season arrival of Madar, Hapoel has been the most dangerous offensive team in the EuroCup

Dreamland Gran Canaria announced on Sunday that it has acquired playmaker Ziga Samar from ALBA Berlin for the remainder of the season

Gran Canaria loans Ziga Samar from ALBA Berlin

Dreamland Gran Canaria announced on Sunday that it has acquired playmaker [Ziga Samar](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/ziga-samar/profile/007550/) for the remainder of the season. Samar (1.97 meters, 24 years old) arrives on loan from ALBA Berlin for which he averaged 4.1 points and 2.9 assists over 14 appearances in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague this season. He is 10th in the EuroLeague this season in per-minute assists with a prorated average of 8.4 over 40 minutes. Gran Canaria made the move following the news that [Carlos Alocen](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/gran-canaria-alocen-out-for-the-season/) was lost for the season with a torn ACL.

Samar returns to Spain, where he has spent most of his professional career. The tall point guard began his career with the Olimpija Ljubljana youth system in his native Slovenia and was just 16 years when he signed with Real Madrid. Samar also played professionally for Baloncesto Zambrano and Fuenlabrada, He joined ALBA in 2022 on a long-term deal and was loaned to Veolia Towers Hamburg in that first season, during which he also played in the EuroCup. Samar is also a member of the Slovenian national team.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">🖊 Žiga Samar refuerza al Dreamland Gran Canaria hasta final de temporada.<br><br>▪ El base esloveno, formado en el Real Madrid, llega en calidad de cedido por el Alba Berlín hasta el término del presente curso.<br><br>➡  <a href="https://t.co/K2TKJrCmEA">https://t.co/K2TKJrCmEA</a> <a href="https://t.co/bBsIhYkj3T">pic.twitter.com/bBsIhYkj3T</a></p>&mdash; Dreamland Gran Canaria (@GranCanariaCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/GranCanariaCB/status/1883583491797102968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The playmaker will reinforce the Granca backcourt for the remainder of the season

We always knew that Friday’s meeting between Olympiacos BC and Fenerbahce Beko – first against second – would be something special, and it was Fenerbahce that came out on top to move within a win of first-placed Olympiacos.

Defensive discipline and ball movement helped Fenerbahce stay red hot

We always knew that Friday’s meeting between [Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/olympiacos-piraeus/oly/) and [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/) – first against second – would be something special, particularly as both teams headed into the game in great form: Olympiacos on the back of seven straight wins, and Fenerbahce looking to make it five consecutive victories.

And when the scoring started with [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/) draining a triple before [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/) sank a mid-range strike at the other end, it looked like the stars were coming out to play for a scoring showdown.

However, that opening flurry from two of the league’s leading MVP candidates proved to be a false dawn, because this was a Rivalry Series battle played at a slow pace and dominated by defenses. And specifically, Fenerbahce’s.

The Turkish team powered its way to victory, becoming only the second visiting team to win in Piraeus this season, by smothering the Reds with a stifling blanket that held the hosts to their second-lowest points tally at home, and a scoring total more than 10 points below their season average.

Faced by Fenerbahce’s organization, discipline and hustle, the home team particularly struggled to attack the interior, making just 16 of its 38 attempts (42.1%) from inside the arc – well down on its season average of 56.3% from two-point range. Notably, the Reds converted far more free throws (30) than field goals (21), with Fenerbahce repeatedly refusing to allow the home team to find its offensive rhythm and instead forcing the Reds to the foul line.

Only two Olympiacos players could score in double digits, with [Evan Fournier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/evan-fournier/013380/) netting 21 points and Sasha Vezenkov 19, and even they had to make much of their contribution from the line, respectively scoring 7 and 8 free throws.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">Ülkemizin ve camiamızın başı sağ olsun. <a href="https://t.co/WWjxRLJO1J">pic.twitter.com/WWjxRLJO1J</a></p>&mdash; Fenerbahçe Beko (@FBBasketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBBasketbol/status/1882866208841798051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Visiting guard [Devon Hall](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/devon-hall/011205/) confirmed that was all part of the plan, explaining in his postgame interview with EuroLeague TV: “Our defense was about making them take tough shots. They missed some open ones, so we got lucky with that. It’s not an easy place to play, so it feels good to be able to come here and get a win.”

Fenerbahce also outmatched Olympiacos’s strong physicality by holding the home team to just 6 offensive boards, while grabbing 9 at the other end through six different players, and winning the overall rebounding battle 36 to 27.

And on the offensive, the Turkish team delivered consistent productivity to register solid shooting stats of 21 of 32 from two-point range (65.6%) and 11 of 32 from deep (34.4%). Coach [Saras Jasikevicius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/jasikevicius-saras/) was particularly pleased with the ball movement that led to 21 assists and made many of those conversions possible.

“It’s not easy to play over here,” he said. “Olympiacos doesn’t really let you play your own basketball, but I thought for some moments we were there.

“When we move the ball, when we don’t hold the ball, we are putting up good offensive numbers and creating shots. For these moments we were great. It’s not easy, they have great physicality, they’re ready defensively, so it’s a big win. We have to be proud and happy."

Proud, happy, and rising rapidly towards the top of the standings.

The Turkish team delivered a strong all-round game to down Olympiacos

Olympiacos Piraeus v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2025-01-24T19:15:00.000Z)

EuroLeague top photos of the week

Look back at all the action from Round 23 of the regular season by checking out the best photos of the week!

Top 10 photos of the week: Round 23

A stunning offensive performance in the German derby was enough for FC Bayern Munich’s Carsen Edwards to secure Round 23 MVP honors with a round-high 34 PIR.

Round 23 MVP: Carsen Edwards, FC Bayern Munich

A stunning offensive performance in the German derby was enough for FC Bayern Munich’s [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/) to secure Round 23 MVP honors with a round-high 34 PIR.

 

Edwards scored a career-high 34 points in Bayern’s 84-99 win at ALBA Berlin, netting 6-of-9 two-pointers, 5-of-13 three-pointers and 7-of-8 free throws. He also posted 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal and 3 fouls drawn, giving him a career-best 34 PIR. This is the first time Edwards has been the MVP of the Round, while it is the second time this season a Bayern player has earned MVP of the Round honors – and 11th time all-time – following Shabazz Napier back in Round 6.

 

Real Madrid’s [Facundo Campazzo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/facundo-campazzo/005928/) and LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne’s [Theo Maledon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/theo-maledon/007027/) had the joint second-best PIR in Round 23 with 29. In Real Madrid’s dramatic 90-89 victory over Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, the Argentine amassed 22 points, going 6 for 9 on two-pointers, 1 for 4 on threes and 7 for 7 on free throws, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal and 6 fouls drawn. ASVEL beat FC Barcelona 100-94, with Maledon recording 18 points on 2-of-6 two-pointers, 2-of-7 three-pointers and 8-of-8 free throws, 4 rebounds, 9 assists, 2 steals and 9 fouls drawn. AS Monaco’s [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/) and Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade’s [Isaac Bonga](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/isaac-bonga/006760/) round out the list of top performers with a 28 PIR. James had 24 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 12 fouls drawn in Monaco’s 80-86 win at Virtus Segafredo Bologna, while Bonga finished with 16 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 3 fouls drawn in Partizan’s 92-86 triumph over Paris Basketball.

 

### Individual highs: Carsen Edwards, Bayern, 34 points

 

Bayern’s Edwards scored 34 points in Round 23, the most of any player. Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens’s [Kendrick Nunn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kendrick-nunn/012774/) leads the league in scoring with 20.1 points per game.

 

Baskonia’s [Nikos Rogkavopoulos](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nikolaos-rogkavopoulos/011085/) led all players in Round 23 by pulling down 11 rebounds. Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade’s [Joel Bolomboy](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/joel-bolomboy/009035/) has averaged a league-best 8.0 rebounds per contest this season.

 

ASVEL’s Theo Maledon and Anadolu Efes Istanbul’s [PJ Dozier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/perry-dozier-jr/012742/) both recorded a round-high 9 assists. Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv’s [Tamir Blatt](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tamir-blatt/011193/) (7.41 apg.) is the leading assist provider in the league, narrowly ahead of Paris’s [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) (7.38 apg.).

 

Maccabi’s [Jaylen Hoard](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jaylen-hoard/006835/) made 4 steals in Round 23, more than anyone else. Bayern’s [Nick Weiler-Babb](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nick-weiler-babb/010391/) tops the steals charts with 1.6 per night.

 

Three players – Panathinaikos’s [Wenyen Gabriel](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/wenyen-gabriel/013383/), Real Madrid’s [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/), and Monaco’s [Georgios Papagiannis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/georgios-papagiannis/005844/) – had a round-best 3 blocks. Papagiannis (1.35 bpg.) leads the EuroLeague in blocks, just ahead of Tavares (1.30 bpg.), Gabriel (1.27 bpg.), and Efes’s [Vincent Poirier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vincent-poirier/004887/) (1.26 bpg.).

 

Baskonia duo Rogkavopoulos (22 points, 11 rebounds) and [Chima Moneke](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/chima-moneke/012201/) (14 points, 10 rebounds) were the only players to record a double-double in Round 23.

The Bayern guard had a career-best scoring night in the German derby

Round 23 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague had something for everyone. Check out round's best plays and see who had the best of them!

Top 10 Plays | RS Round 23 | 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague

 Round 23 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague had something for everyone. Check out round's best plays and see who had the best of them!

Round 23: Top 10 plays

Turkish Airlines EuroLeague fans, we have our 23rd winner in this season's EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge! Filip Matejevic beat everyone else in Round 23 with his team 'Nitogen BC', which had a Fantasy Challenge score of 234.70.

EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Round 23 winner

Turkish Airlines EuroLeague fans, we have our 23rd winner in this season's [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/)! Filip Matejevic beat everyone else in Round 23 with his team 'Nitogen BC', which had a Fantasy Challenge score of 234.70.

Filip had the following starting lineup: Facundo Campazzo of Real Madrid as team captain, then LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne's Theo Maledon, Olympiacos Piraeus's Sasha Vezenkov, and Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens duo Juancho Hernangomez and Wenyen Gabriel. His sixth man was FC Bayern Munich's Carsen Edwards. On the bench, Filip had Bayern's Niels Giffey, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade's Sterling Brown, Paris Basketball's Enzo Shahrvin, and Real Madrid's Eli Ndiaye. His team's head coach was Bayern play-caller Gordie Herbert.

The prize for finishing first in Round 23 is a free VIP Euroleague TV subscription for the 2025-26 season, so congratulations, Filip!

Marko Dukic and his team 'Kughat' remains the leader of the [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/) overall standings with 3,935.84 points.

Trades are now open for Round 24.  Remember, four trades are allowed before each round until the end of the regular season. You can either trade up to four players, or a head coach and three players.

The first game in Round 24 tips off on Thursday, January 30, as Zalgiris Kaunas hosts FC Bayern Munich at 19:00 CET. That game marks the next round's deadline.

Make new teams now or improve your existing ones and try to become our next round winner!

EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge offers weekly prizes to the top team manager. 

Real Madrid Baloncesto has completed the signing of Bruno Fernando, who joins the club after spending six years in the NBA.

Bruno Fernando signs for Real Madrid

[Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/mad/) has completed the signing of Bruno Fernando on a deal until the end of the 2025-26 season. He is *Los Blancos*' second addition in recent weeks, following [the arrival of Dennis Smith Jr.](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/real-madrid-baloncesto-signs-ex-nba-guard-dennis-smith-jr/) on January 16. 

Fernando (2.06 meters, 26 years old) has spent his entire career in the NBA to date, most recently averaging 3.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game across 17 appearances this season for the Toronto Raptors.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="qme" dir="ltr">📸👕🏀 <br>👋 <a href="https://twitter.com/BrunoFernandoMV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrunoFernandoMV</a> <a href="https://t.co/K49WhsaEdn">pic.twitter.com/K49WhsaEdn</a></p>&mdash; Real Madrid Basket (@RMBaloncesto) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMBaloncesto/status/1882907172503175671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Angolan big man, who posted 14.0 points, 5.3 boards and 1.5 assists in four games at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, has played for the Atlanta Hawks (2019-21), Boston Celtics (2021-22), Houston Rockets (2022-23), Atlanta Hawks (2023-24), and Toronto (2024-25) in his 226-game NBA career.

Fernando adds more depth at center for Real Madrid, which has three-time EuroLeague Best Defender [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) and 2019 NBA champion [Serge Ibaka](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/serge-ibaka/003583/) among its options at the '5'.

More Real Madrid News

The six-year NBA center is coming to the EuroLeague for the first time

Carsen Edwards could hardly believe the final score when he was told it after FC Bayern Munich’s hard-fought victory at ALBA Berlin – a game in which he and Andreas Obst shined offensively for a shortened rotation late in the game. 

Edwards, Obst shined as Bayern’s double-edged sword in German derby 

[Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/) could hardly believe the final score when he was told it after [FC Bayern Munich](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fc-bayern-munich/mun/)’s hard-fought [victory at ALBA Berlin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/edwards-obst-combine-for-55-in-bayerns-84-99-win-at-alba/) – a game in which he and [Andreas Obst](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/andreas-obst/004508/) shined offensively for a shortened rotation late in the game. 

“Was it 15 points? Playing against them, it never feels like that. It felt like a three-point game the way they can get up and down,” Edwards said following Bayern’s 84-99 win in the German capital. 

“When they get momentum, they can make shots. It’s good for us to get a win. Any win means a lot. We’re just happy to get the win and everybody come out healthy.”

Edwards ended up playing 34 minutes and poured in a career-high 34 points, including 5 three-pointers. He also picked up 6 rebounds and 6 assists for a career-best PIR of 34. 

“He told us before the game he was tired. He didn’t play tired,” Bayern head coach [Gordie Herbert](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fc-bayern-munich/mun/herbert-gordon/) said afterward about Edwards. 

"We played him the whole second half. We shortened the rotation. Guys really fought through it. And he made some huge plays. I think his overall game was better tonight. Obviously he scored points and made plays, but his defense was good. He was engaged, he was intense. He really did a good job on \[ALBA’s Matt\] Thomas. We challenged him by putting him on Thomas. And I thought he responded well.”

Helping out carrying the offense was Obst, who knocked down 6-of-7 three-pointers for 21 points.  

“Obst shot the ball well and Edwards made some big plays. It’s a double-edged sword when those two are going,” Herbert said. 

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">New <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Euroleague</a> career high, great all around game and the W. Nice night for <a href="https://twitter.com/Cboogie_3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cboogie_3</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeBallTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeBallTogether</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BERBAY?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BERBAY</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BoilerBall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BoilerBall</a> <a href="https://t.co/0G0uftypcY">pic.twitter.com/0G0uftypcY</a></p>&mdash; FC Bayern Basketball (@FCBBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBBasketball/status/1882906903891546573?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The difference in the game was the first 5 minutes of the fourth quarter, as Bayern started the final frame with a 4-18 run. [Niels Giffey](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/niels-giffey/001557/) had two three-pointers, Obst hit once from deep, and Edwards poured in 9 points. 

“It was a back and forth game for 30 minutes. We started well, they responded. But we had a great response in the first 5 minutes of the fourth quarter,” Coach Herbert said. 

The victory was very important for Bayern, which improved to 13-10 after having lost four of its last five games. Bayern also grabbed its 10th win in 11 EuroLeague games against ALBA.

“In a season like this, tough stretches are completely normal. You just have to find a way out of the tough stretch. We need to stay together, we need to work hard and look ahead,” said Obst. 

Thanks to Obst and Edwards, Bayern can at least head back home with their heads held high. 

Shortened rotation carried Bayern past ALBA in thriller

ALBA Berlin v FC Bayern Munich (2025-01-24T19:00:00.000Z)

LDLC ASVEL grabbed a 100-94 victory to end FC Barcelona’s four-game winning streak in style, with as many as six players netted at least 12 points: Theo Maledon led the way (18), and Andre Roberson (17), Paris Lee (14), Neal Sako (14), Tarik Black (13) and Nando De Colo (12) followed suit. 

ASVEL played with 'heart more than brain' to power past Barcelona

Tactics may be crucial to outsmart opponents, but energy and determination can definitely win you games. When these three elements are paired with pure talent, they may well lead to triumphs against basketball powerhouses. 

That is precisely what [LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne/asv/) managed to achieve on Friday night, when [Pierric Poupet](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne/asv/poupet-pierric/)'s men netted as many as 100 points against one of the most in-form teams in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague.

ASVEL grabbed [a 100-94 victory to end FC Barcelona’s four-game winning streak](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/theo-maledon-leads-the-way-as-asvel-downs-barcelona-100-94/) in style. As many as six players netted at least 12 points, with [Theo Maledon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/theo-maledon/007027/) leading the way (18), and [Andre Roberson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/andre-roberson/013405/) (17), [Paris Lee](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/paris-lee/011225/) (14), [Neal Sako](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/neal-sako/010545/) (14), [Tarik Black](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tarik-black/008991/) (13) and [Nando De Colo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nando-de-colo/002100/) (12) following suit. 

A mix of talent and experience, combined with the energy provided by each of the 12 players who stepped on the floor, inspired a big home victory.

“We had 12 players \[available\], so it’s easier to give 100% in a short time; everybody can bring a lot of energy and get those big wins,” Sako told EuroLeague TV after the game.

ASVEL bettered Barcelona in all crucial statistical categories, showing hustle on both ends and playing exemplary team basketball at times. The hosts outrebounded the guests 30-26, while they also recorded more offensive boards (12-8), assists (25-22), steals (8-6) and blocks (3-1).

They may have given up 94 points, but Coach Poupet was proud of what he saw. 

“Of course we made mistakes, but I asked \[the players\] before the game to play with passion and heart more than brain, and this is exactly what they did,” he said in a courtside interview with EuroLeague TV.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Another night, another big performance. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LDLCASVEL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LDLCASVEL</a> <a href="https://t.co/E2ZALwrSMU">pic.twitter.com/E2ZALwrSMU</a></p>&mdash; LDLC ASVEL (@LDLCASVEL) <a href="https://twitter.com/LDLCASVEL/status/1882921124532724086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This was the first time this season that ASVEL reached the 100-point mark in a game, with Maledon’s numbers perfectly encapsulating the team’s near-perfect performance. The ASVEL guard paired his 18 points with 9 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 6 fouls drawn and no turnovers in almost 28 minutes on the court.

Having recorded two straight wins, ASVEL will now look to build on its momentum with a potential victory against Paris Basketball next week. To achieve that, they need to maintain the same approach, as playing with “heart and energy” is what usually makes the difference in a derby.

The hosts reached the 100-point mark for the first time this season

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne v FC Barcelona (2025-01-24T19:00:00.000Z)

Fenerbahce Beko's win at Olympiacos BC confirmed that Marko Guduric is in arguably the best form of his long and illustrious EuroLeague career.

Marko Guduric’s sweet form continued for firing Fenerbahce

[Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/) is on the march, moving within one win of first place – and with a game in hand – by taking a fifth consecutive victory in [a 77-87 battle over league leader Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-stands-strong-to-down-olympiacos-77-87/) on Friday night.

And although this particular success was more about collective strength than individual brilliance, it did confirm that [Marko Guduric](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/marko-guduric/004004/) is in arguably the best form of his long and illustrious EuroLeague career.

The veteran swingman led his team by netting 21 points with impressive efficiency, making all 5 of his two-point attempts, shooting 2 of 4 from beyond the arc and converting 5 of his 6 free throws. He also dished 4 assists and grabbed 3 rebounds for a game-high PIR of 25, spending more than 26 minutes on the floor.

And that was nothing new, because Guduric has been consistently excellent throughout his team’s surge towards the top of the standings. 

He has scored in double digits in six straight games, averaging 16.2 points, and is also orchestrating the offense with an average of 4.5 assists during that timespan. Add in his ability to draw fouls and get to the foul line, his dogged defense and a team-first ethic, and it’s easy to claim that Guduric, right now, is the most important player for the hottest team in the competition.

It wasn’t always that way. The 29-year-old, now in his ninth season in the competition and with 269 EuroLeague appearances under his belt, suffered a slow start to the campaign. He particularly struggled during a three-game stretch in December, recording averages of just 4.0 points and a 1.3 PIR from a tough run of games against Real Madrid, AS Monaco and FC Barcelona.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ro" dir="ltr">Olympiacos maçının MVP’si Marko Guduric<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YellowLegacy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YellowLegacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bug%C3%BCndenYar%C4%B1naHaz%C4%B1r?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BugündenYarınaHazır</a> <a href="https://t.co/G1zTB5RNVg">pic.twitter.com/G1zTB5RNVg</a></p>&mdash; Fenerbahçe Beko (@FBBasketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBBasketbol/status/1882902739208044926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

But he showed great resilience to rediscover his best form, and is now clearly a man on a mission. Even after Friday’s win he didn’t let the mask slip. 

Shrugging off Jasikevicius’s joking suggestion that he could enjoy a celebratory beer rather than a rehydrating water without even raising a smile, Guduric stayed in game-face mode: “It was not easy. Game of the season, \[against the\] best team in EuroLeague right now, but I think we did a pretty good job defensively. Our intensity was there and I’m happy we won the game.”

And Fener fans are just as happy to see their key backcourt presence prolonging his hot streak.

The swingman has become a key player for Saras Jasikevicius

Fenerbahce Beko guard Marko Guduric spoke to EuroLeague TV after his team beat Olympiacos BC in Round 23 of the 2024-25 EuroLeague season.

Marko Guduric: 'Game of the season'

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul guard Marko Guduric spoke to EuroLeague TV after his team beat Olympiacos Piraeus in Round 23 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season.