By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
ASVEL secured a victory in the 18th round of the EuroLeague, defeating Anadolu Efes 103-99 on their home court after 50 minutes of basketball.
The incredible drama in France was decided only after two overtimes, with the hosts triumphing thanks to better free-throw shooting. In regulation, Nick Weiler-Babb hit a three-pointer to tie the game, and Glynn Watson missed a shot, leading to an additional five minutes.
Efes was closer to winning in the first overtime, but Vautier hit two free throws to level the score at 92-92, while Rodrigue Beaubois missed two shots for the win. The decision came in the second overtime when Rolands Smits missed two crucial free throws, ASVEL remained precise, and eventually celebrated the victory.
Vautier led his team with 28 points, Glenn Watson scored 18, and Thomas Heurtel added 17 points along with eight assists. On the other side, Isaia Cordinier and Nick Weiler-Babb each scored 20 points, compensating for the absence of Jordan Loyd. Vincent Poirier also contributed 17 points, but the absence of Shane Larkin, PJ Dozier, and Georgios Papagiannis was felt.
Anadolu Efes holds a 6-12 record and will face Crvena Zvezda in the next round, while ASVEL, with a 5-13 record, will host Paris.