By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Panathinaikos secured another trip to the Stoiximan GBL Finals after overcoming PAOK in Thessaloniki and completing the semifinal series sweep.
The Greens defeated PAOK 96-84 after pulling away in the second half, once again proving too strong late in the game despite another competitive performance from the hosts.
Cedi Osman led Panathinaikos with a Greek League career-high 29 points, including five made three-pointers. Jerian Grant and Mathias Lessort added 15 points each, while TJ Shorts and Nigel Hayes-Davis scored 14 apiece.
For PAOK, Cleveland Melvin finished with 22 points, Clifford Omoruyi added 19 points and seven rebounds, while Patrick Beverley posted 14 points and 11 assists.
PAOK led 47-44 at halftime after a strong first half fueled by Beverley’s playmaking and transition offense.
However, Panathinaikos completely shifted the momentum after the break. Osman exploded for 14 points in the third quarter alone, while the visitors finished the game with 13 made three-pointers and took control in the fourth period.
Panathinaikos has now reached the Greek League Finals every year since 2003.
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