By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Olympiacos faces a significant shorthanded challenge in Round 37 of the 2025-26 EuroLeague Regular Season, as the club confirmed Frank Ntilikina has been ruled out for Thursday’s clash against Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv.
The French guard, who traveled with the squad to Sofia, was sidelined by a sudden bout of gastroenteritis, further complicating a backcourt already missing his compatriot Evan Fournier due to ongoing illness. These late scratchings force head coach Georgios Bartzokas to navigate a depleted rotation as the Reds look to defend their position at the summit of the EuroLeague standings.
The injury report extends beyond the backcourt, with Giannoulis Larentzakis, Monte Morris, and Tyrique Jones all remaining in Greece. Morris continues to struggle with a recurring back issue, while Jones is still recovering from a left calf strain. These absences, coupled with the long-term loss of Keenan Evans to an Achilles rupture, leave the Greek giants leaning heavily on their depth. However, there is a silver lining for the Piraeus faithful, as Moustapha Fall is set to make his season debut after being named to the active 12-man roster, providing a vital interior presence at the Arena 8888 Sofia.
Currently sitting at 24-12, Olympiacos has already secured its playoff berth but remains motivated to clinch the top seed before its regular-season finale against EA7 Emporio Armani Milan. They face a formidable Hapoel side led by Dimitris Itoudis, which is also grappling with the absences of Tomer Ginat and Tyler Ennis. Sitting fourth at 22-13, the Israeli side is desperate for a victory to maintain their cushion over the Play-In Showdown zone.