Although there was no score at stake, and although there was no consequence in the derby of the 23rd matchday at Stoiximan GBL, the "eternals" proved that every encounter between them will always have the character of a great derby.
Tension, nerves, and passion were among the elements that dominated the court of the Telekom Center Athens, with Olympiacos achieving a 2/2 against their great domestic rival and maintaining their unbeaten record (21-0).
The "red-and-whites" were better from the start of the game, taking advantage of the numerous absences of Panathinaikos, resulting in only nine players being available and Kendrick Nunn being out for a half due to ejection.
As was Tyler Dorsey, who was ejected for their altercation just before the end of the first half, resulting in the two best players on the court in the first half remaining in the locker room. However, the visitors consistently had control of the game, and with key player Giannoulis Larentzakis (3/6 3-pointers, 6 assists), they reached the final victory, responding to the green outbursts and their return to the game, reducing the deficit to as little as four points (74-78).
- WON BECAUSE… in the first half, they had a real offensive crescendo, scoring 60 points and hitting 8/12 three-pointers. Also, the immediate reaction of Olympiacos when Panathinaikos reduced the lead to 4 points (74-78) with an 8-0 run for 74-86 played a significant role.
- MADE THE DIFFERENCE… Tyler Dorsey (18 points) in the first quarter and Giannoulis Larentzakis (12 points, 3/6 3-pointers, 6 assists), who was the hidden ace in Bartzokas' red-and-white sleeve.
- WORTHY SUPPORTER… Alec Peters (11 points) and Donta Hall (10 points)
- COULD HAVE DONE BETTER…both Kalaitzakis and Toliopoulos, who did not take advantage of the opportunities they received, resulting in limited playing time despite the many absences.
- DEFEATED BUT… Cedi Osman (19 points) played for Kendrick Nunn in the second half.
- WHAT HAPPENED IN THE 1ST ROUND: Olympiacos had defeated Panathinaikos at the Peace and Friendship Stadium with a score of 90-86.
The quarters: 21-30, 44-60, 74-80, 94-101.