Anadolu Efes, which started the match with a 5-0 series, increased the difference to double digits with Ercan Osmani’s basket in the 6th minute: 2-13. Continuing their superiority throughout the quarter, the dark blue-whites finished the first period ahead 21-6.
Although Fenerbahçe Beko started the second period of the match by increasing its defensive strength, the guest team prevailed 25-13 in the 15th minute. Anadolu Efes went to the locker room with a 34-21 victory.
Fenerbahçe Beko started the second half with Melli’s three-pointer and reduced the difference to single digits with Biberovic’s layup in the 25th minute: 29-38. Recovering with the points it produced under the leadership of Larkin, Anadolu Efes increased the difference to 17 points (32-49) with Ercan Osmani’s mid-range basket in the 28th minute. Anadolu Efes entered the final period with a 51-36 advantage.
Starting the last period with Jantunen and Biberovic’s three-pointers, Fenerbahçe Beko reduced the difference to 8 points in the 33rd minute: 43-51. Continuing their superior play, the yellow-dark blue team reduced the difference to 3 (51-54) with Melli’s point from the free throw line in the 38th minute. Fenerbahçe Beko equalized the score with Melli’s three-pointer with 1.5 minutes left: 54-54. Later, while both teams scored baskets, the yellow-dark blue team took the lead 60-59 with Horton-Tucker’s basket foul with 5.6 seconds left. While Anadolu Efes could not benefit from the last attack with Larkin, Fenerbahçe Beko won the match 60-59.
The second match of the series, in which the team that will achieve three wins will advance to the final, will be played on Wednesday, June 3, again hosted by Fenerbahçe Beko.
Lounge: Ülker Sports and Events
Referees: Emin Moğulkoç, Seher Ayşe Nur Yazıcıoğlu, Uğur Akyıldız
Fenerbahçe Beko: Hall 3, Biberovic 16, Colson 3, Melli 16, Birch, Metecan Birsen, Horton-Tucker 14, Melih Mahmutoğlu, Boston 3, Onuralp Bitim, Jantunen 5
Anadolu Efes: Larkin 10, Weiler-Babb 2, Dozier 17, Poirier 10, Ercan Osmani 9, Şehmus Hazer 1, Loyd 6, Smits, Erkan Yılmaz 2, Jones 2
1st Period: 6-21
Circuit: 21-34
3rd Period: 36-51
With five fouls: 39.57 Dozier (Anadolu Efes)
