Anadolu Efes falls 95-90 to Paris Basketbol in EuroLeague

Anadolu Efes suffered a 95-90 home defeat against Paris Basketbol in the 10th round of the EuroLeague, marking the Turkish side’s sixth loss of the current campaign, according to reports from Anadolu Ajansı.

Match Progression at Turkcell Basketbol Gelişim Merkezi

The contest began with Anadolu Efes establishing an early rhythm. Led by scoring contributions from Saric, Fernando, Payne, and Malcolm, the home side built an 18-12 lead by the sixth minute. Despite a late push from the visitors, Efes maintained momentum to close the first period ahead at 26-23. However, the second quarter saw control change; the hosts struggled offensively, managing only a single point in the first five minutes and 23 seconds of play. Paris Basketbol capitalized on the drought, moving ahead 35-27 by the 15th minute and taking a 42-36 lead into the halftime break.

The third quarter featured a competitive exchange as Efes fought to regain ground. A basket from Fernando at the start of the 27th minute briefly gave the hosts a 59-57 advantage. The period ended with back-to-back three-pointers from Saric and Malcolm, putting Anadolu Efes back in front 70-66 heading into the final frame.

Final Quarter Turnaround

Paris Basketbol reclaimed the lead at 78-76 by the 34th minute. Anadolu Efes faced difficulties maintaining consistency in the closing stages, committing critical errors that prevented a comeback. By the 38th minute, the French side extended their advantage to 89-83. Paris Basketbol executed efficiently in the final moments to secure the 95-90 victory.

Cameron Payne Leads Scoring as Bench Struggles to Provide Depth

Cameron Payne led the scoring for Anadolu Efes with 33 points and seven assists, though his individual performance was not enough to secure the win. Malcolm added 20 points and six rebounds, while Fernando recorded 14 points and 10 rebounds. Saric contributed 10 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. Demirören Haber Ajansı reported that while the starting five produced 80 of the team’s 90 points, the bench struggled to provide depth, contributing only 10 points.

For Paris Basketbol, Nadir Hifi delivered a standout performance with 28 points, six rebounds, and nine assists. Rhoden and Etienne bolstered the visitors’ effort with 14 and 12 points respectively, both coming off the bench. Warren also reached double figures with 13 points and five rebounds.

EuroLeague Standings Context

Anadolu Efes has now lost six of their ten EuroLeague matches this season. The loss interrupts a brief positive streak for the team, which had previously secured home victories against Beşiktaş and Panathinaikos. Conversely, the win marks the fourth victory for Paris Basketbol, who entered the contest riding the momentum of three consecutive road wins.

Match Statistics

The game was officiated by Robert Lottermoser, Olegs Latisevs, and Jordi Aliaga. The box score reflects the efficiency gap in the final minutes:

More on this story: Anadolu Efes faces Paris Basketball in EuroLeague Round 10 · Paris Basketball beats Dubai 99-93 to end four-game EuroLeague slump

More on Paris: Paris Basketball Defeats Maccabi Tel-Aviv 94-99 · Paris Basketball to Host Fenerbahçe at Accor Arena in EuroLeague Rematch · Paris Basketball claims Betclic Élite lead past Élan Chalon

• Individual scoring for Anadolu Efes: Payne 33, Malcolm 20, Fernando 14, Saric 10, Strazel 4, Loyd 3, Ercan Osmani 2, Yusta 2, Jones 2.
• Paris Basketbol player totals: Hifi 28, Rhoden 14, Warren 13, Etienne 12, Pereira 8, Faye 7, Herrera 5, Morgan 3, Cavaliere 2, Ayayi 2, Johnson 1.