By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Tofaş made a statement in the opening game of the Basketball Champions League Play-Ins, controlling the match at home against Cholet. The hosts showed composure and resilience to secure a vital first-leg win.
The game ended 89–75 in favor of Tofaş, giving them a comfortable margin heading into the return leg.
Furkan Korkmaz led Tofaş in scoring with 17 points, while Tolga Geçim added 15 points and five rebounds. Alex Pérez contributed 13 points and five assists, and Marek Blažević chipped in with 12 points and six boards.
For Cholet, Nathan De Sousa topped the scoring with 16 points, followed by Terrance Campbell with 12. Chibuzo Agbo and Gerald Ayayi added 11 points each, while Mohamed Diarra recorded six points and pulled down 12 rebounds.
After a fast start that saw Tofaş lead 26–18 in the opening quarter, Cholet fought back in the second to narrow the gap. The third period saw the French side briefly grab a four-point lead, but Tofaş responded with a decisive 14–0 run to take control at 62–52.
Cholet continued to fight in the final quarter, but another Tofaş scoring burst late in the game put the result beyond doubt. The victory represents an important step toward the BCL Top 16 for the Turkish side.