By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Anadolu Efes claimed a narrow 90–87 victory over Beşiktaş to take a 1–0 lead in the Turkish League semifinal series, largely thanks to an outstanding performance by Shane Larkin.
The experienced guard delivered a game-high 35 points on 7-of-11 shooting from three-point range, setting the tone for Efes in a tightly contested Istanbul derby. Efes now holds the home-court advantage in the best-of-five series.
Despite Larkin’s offensive outburst, Beşiktaş stayed competitive throughout the game and had a chance to win in the final moments. However, Efes maintained composure in the closing possessions to secure the win.
PJ Dozier contributed 14 points for Efes, while Jordan Nwora added 9. On the other side, Dustin Sleva led Beşiktaş with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Derek Needham (14), Berk Uğurlu (13), Kyle Allman, and Jonah Mathews (11 each) also reached double figures.
Game 2 will also be played in Beşiktaş’s arena on Sunday, June 8.