Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens opened its EuroLeague playoff sequence with a 68-67 highway win over Valencia Basket on Tuesday, April 28, at Roig Enviornment.
The matchup between two high-powered offenses become a half-court contest, with each groups struggling to search out rhythm and counting on defensive execution.
Valencia, which averaged over 90 factors throughout the common season, was held to 67 factors and shot simply 6-of-33 from three-point vary.
The Spanish aspect additionally endured lengthy scoring droughts early, managing solely 15 factors within the first quarter after lacking 9 of its first 11 makes an attempt.
Panathinaikos constructed its early edge behind Kendrick Nunn, who scored 14 factors within the opening quarter and completed with a team-high 21.
The Greek aspect carried a 39-32 lead into halftime regardless of modest offensive effectivity, as each groups mixed for simply 71 factors within the first half.
Valencia adjusted after the break by attacking inside, changing 20-of-33 two-point makes an attempt and steadily slicing into the deficit.
Jean Montero led the hosts with 15 factors, whereas Braxton Key added 12 on an ideal 6-of-6 capturing contained in the arc.
The house workforce erased the deficit and tied the sport at 67-67 with simply over two minutes remaining, organising a possession-by-possession end.
TJ Shorts briefly gave Panathinaikos the lead with 4 straight factors, however Valencia responded by means of Montero and Nate Reuvers to stage the rating once more.
With 24 seconds left, Panathinaikos remoted Nunn on the ultimate possession, trusting its major scorer to create in a decent sport.
Nunn drove into the lane and drew a foul, splitting a pair of free throws to provide the guests a 68-67 lead with 2.1 seconds remaining.
Valencia had one ultimate likelihood, however defensive strain from Cedi Osman and Nigel Hayes-Davis compelled a turnover on the inbound sequence.
That cease sealed the consequence, highlighting Panathinaikos’ defensive self-discipline in late-game conditions.
Mathias Lessort anchored the inside with 12 factors and 7 rebounds, offering physicality on each ends.
The Greek aspect completed with 10 steals and compelled 12 turnovers, key elements in a sport the place offensive effectivity was restricted.
Valencia shot 60.6 % contained in the arc however couldn’t compensate for its perimeter struggles, a crucial hole in a one-point loss.
Panathinaikos now holds a 1-0 lead within the best-of-five sequence and has stolen home-court benefit heading into Recreation 2.
