Anadolu Efes vs Panathinaikos

Anadolu Efes pulled off a dramatic comeback win in Game 2 in Athens, leveling the series at 1-1 and gaining crucial momentum heading into Game 3 in Istanbul. Now back on their home floor, Luca Banchi’s squad has a chance to seize control of the quarterfinals—but they know the reigning EuroLeague champions will come to Turkey with fire in their eyes, looking to bounce back.

So far in this series, Efes has shown impressive offensive depth and flashes of improved defense—something rarely seen during the regular season. Shane Larkin was the hero of Game 2, drilling a clutch three-pointer in the final moments to seal the win. Around him, several players have stepped up in key ways. Vincent Poirier has delivered two of his most composed performances this year, PJ Dozier effectively ran the offense during the fourth-quarter rally, and Derek Willis shined in the opener.

To build on their momentum, Efes will need further contributions from the likes of Ercan Osmani and Rolands Smits, while Darius Thompson and Elijah Bryant must make smarter choices in high-pressure situations.

Panathinaikos, meanwhile, find themselves in a familiar spot. Just like last season's quarterfinal against Maccabi Tel Aviv, they split their home games and now face the challenge of winning on the road to reach the Final Four. In Game 1, a late surge gave them a narrow victory. In Game 2, however, despite controlling much of the contest, they faltered late—undone by Efes’ resilience and Larkin’s dagger.

For the Greens to rebound, EuroLeague MVP Kendrick Nunn must elevate his game—he’s yet to dominate the series as expected. Juancho Hernangomez, who was brilliant in Game 1, must maintain that form, while Kostas Sloukas and Lorenzo Brown both have room to grow in terms of impact and consistency.

Adding extra intrigue is Panathinaikos coach Ergin Ataman’s return to Istanbul, where he previously led Anadolu Efes to great success. Now, he’ll be hoping to plot their downfall as he seeks a key road win to swing the series back in Panathinaikos’ favor.

Panathinaikos host Anadolu Efes for Game Two of their EuroLeague quarter-final series, holding a 1-0 lead after a strong Game One victory. With the advantage of playing at home, they aim to extend their series lead. Continue reading for our match prediction.

In Game One, Panathinaikos secured an 87-83 win. Juancho Hernangomez led the way with an impressive 20 points and 16 rebounds. Four other players, including regular season MVP Kendrick Nunn with 15 points, also reached double figures for the Greens.

The defending European champions shot 50% from two-point range and made 19 of 22 free throws. The Greek side has a strong record, winning the last three home games against Efes.

Anadolu Efes are determined to level the series before Game Three at home. Coached by Luca Banchi, they trailed by only two points with under 30 seconds left in Game One. Defensive lapses allowed Panathinaikos to score five quick points to clinch the victory. Efes struggled in the final quarter, losing an eight-point lead they held after the third.