By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Panathinaikos had hit a rough patch, enduring a four-game losing streak in the EuroLeague and struggling in domestic competition. The Greens needed a boost, and the return of Matthias Lessort provided exactly that.
In his first game back since Abu Dhabi Final Four, Lessort helped Panathinaikos find their rhythm and secure a hard-fought win over Zalgiris 92-88, as OAKA Arena came alive in celebration.
Even though Panathinaikos held a double-digit lead in the final quarter, Zalgiris never gave up, fought back, and came within 82-85 entering the last 60 seconds. However, on the next possession, Juancho Hernangomez hit a big three, followed by two successful free throws, and Ergin Ataman’s team held on to secure a valuable victory.
Cedi Osman led the way with 22 points, five rebounds, and a PIR of 36, shooting 5/5 from two and 2/2 from beyond the arc. Kendrick Nunn added 22 points, Kostas Sloukas contributed 12, and Nigel Hayes-Davis finished with 10 before fouling out in the final moments.
The man of the hour, however, was Matthias Lessort. After scoring his first basket in the opening moments, OAKA erupted. He finished with nine points and three rebounds in 23 minutes, signaling to everyone that he is back—and with him in the lineup, Panathinaikos is a force to be reckoned with.
Hats off to Zalgiris as well for a fierce battle until the final moments. Sylvain Francisco refused to back down, finishing the game with 23 points, while Nigel Williams-Goss added 13, Moses Wright scored 12, and Maodo Lo contributed 11.