By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
ATHENS – AEK Betsson rallied past La Laguna Tenerife to prevail, 77-73, and rank third in the 2024-25 edition of the Basketball Champions League.
Storming back from a 17-point deficit in Sunel Arena on Sunday was highlighted by Hunter Hale. After the 27-year-old guard tucked in a buzzer-beating three-pointer at the end of the third quarter, the momentum shifted, and a comfortable lead for the visitors evaporated with Hale banking in three free throws to knot the game at 67-67 with 2:30 on the clock. With 1:03 left, his triple produced the first lead for the team coached by Dragan Sakota.
In the third-place game of the Final Four powered by Sunel, AEK and Tenerife, two lasting originals of the BCL, met each other for the first time in league history, despite leading the table of teams with the most games. Earning a minimum of 100,000 euros in prize money wrapped up the weekend for the Queen. The losing side settled for 40,000 euros.
Rayjon Tucker paved the way for a comeback win with a season-high 20 points. Hale followed with 16 points, including ten over the last ten minutes. RaiQuan Gray chipped in 11 points alongside six rebounds and four assists. C.J. Bryce Jr. fouled out early in the fourth period with eight points, five rebounds, two assists, and one steal to his name.
For the visitors, David Kramer and Jaime Fernandez put up 15 and 14 points. Limited to five points and 1/6 two-pointers, Giorgi Shermadini grabbed 13 rebounds, including 11 out of team total 20 off the offensive board.
Compared to the Semifinals, Bruno Fitipaldo sat out and Joan Sastre did not play for Tenerife, with Fran Guerra staying on the injury list. For the hosts, Joshua Obiesie and Nikos Arsenopoulos remained out of the lineup.
Photo Credit: FIBA