By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Simon Birgander is set to reinforce the Asisa Joventut frontcourt at the most critical part of the Basketball Champions League Season X, powered by Ameresco SUNEL.
The 28-year-old Swedish center, who has averaged 6.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks across 11 BCL appearances this season, is projected to return to action for Wednesday’s deciding Game 3 opposite AEK at the SUNEL Arena in Athens. After reporting positive sensations during the team’s final training sessions, Birgander’s interior presence and rim protection become even more vital for head coach Dani Miret, given that veteran star Ante Tomic remains the only major absence for the team based in Badalona. With Guillem Vives already back in the rotation after his stint on the injury list, the return of their defensive anchor provides a significant boost as the Penya seeks to secure a spot in a Final Four hosted on their own home court in Palau Municipal d’Esports de Badalona.
The medical landscape for AEK has cleared significantly just in time for this winner-take-all clash. Although Dimitris Katsivelis and Vassilis Charalampopoulos were forced into intensive therapy following injuries sustained in Game 2, a right knee contusion and a left calf strain, respectively, both players have shown marked improvement. Despite sitting out recent practice sessions to undergo treatment, the Greek side expects both domestic stars to be cleared for action. Furthermore, Mindaugas Kuzminskas has successfully rejoined the team’s regular program, and experienced play-caller Dragan Sakota has recovered from his recent illness.