By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
CSKA Moscow and Real Madrid are once again the two teams to remain perfect on the standings of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague, as Fenerbahce climbed up to the third spot with a thrilling victory against Baskonia in Vitoria.
The week ended with one of Europe’s most intense rivals fighting against each other, with Panathinaikos getting the home victory against Olympiacos.
MVP
While Thanasis Antetokounmpo changed the momentum in the Greek derby, Calathes once more did everything on the court. He finished the night with 14 points (6/13 FG) and he also had seven assists, seven rebounds, three steals, and only one turnover. A real leader.
Best Five
- Nick Calathes: He was the best player of the winners in the biggest game of the week.
- Thomas Heurtel: In a close affair between Khimki Moscow Region and Barcelona, Heurtel was amazing with 18 points, 3/3 threes, and eight assists as his team prevailed on the road.
- Cory Higgins: The game between Milan and CSKA ended up being a really close affair and he was amazing with 23 points (7/11 FG), keeping the “Army Team” perfect.
- Joffrey Lauvergne: With 15 points, two steals, two assists and two rebounds, he was all over the court for Fenerbahce in Vitoria.
- Gustavo Ayon: Real Madrid was admirable versus Maccabi FOX Tel Aviv and Ayon was the best among equals with 12 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists in 21 minutes.
Coach of the week: Dejan Radonjic
He has proven himself on the bench of Crvena Zvezda but he made history with Bayern Munich. The club registered its biggest EuroLeague win, however, what’s even more important is that the German champs have a solid 3-3 record and will not be intimidated by anyone. Radonjic gets the credit for that.
Last word: Slippery Slide
Following the game between Gran Canaria and Darussafaka, coach Ergin Ataman addressed the later’s slippery homecourt, asking EuroLeague to take measures regarding the floor of the arena. The counter-argument came from Gran Canaria head coach Salva Maldonado, who mentioned that if this is the case, it’s affecting both teams.