Defending EuroLeague champions Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens secured a critical 81-77 road victory over Anadolu Efes Istanbul in Game 3 on April 28, 2025, at Sinan Erdem Dome, taking a 2-1 lead in their Turkish Airlines EuroLeague playoff series. The Greens moved one step closer to joining Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul in the 2025 Final Four in Abu Dhabi with a gritty, clutch performance.
Kendrick Nunn earned Player of the Game honors, erupting for 25 points, including 19 in the second half, to fuel Panathinaikos’ comeback. Konstantinos Mitoglou added 18 points and 6 rebounds, delivering a crucial three-pointer late, while Kostas Sloukas contributed 10 points and 4 assists. For Efes, Shane Larkin led with 17 points, Dan Oturu scored 14, and Elijah Bryant added 13 points and 7 rebounds. Ercan Osmani chipped in 10 points, all in the first quarter, helping Efes to a 23-20 lead after 10 minutes.
Despite Efes’ early edge, Panathinaikos tightened their defense, forcing 12 turnovers and outrebounding Efes 38-33. The Greens sealed the win with a 24-19 fourth quarter, showcasing their championship poise. With the series now at 2-1, Game 4 on April 30, 2025, at OAKA Altion promises to be a thriller as Panathinaikos aims to close out and Efes fights to stay alive.
Can the Greens secure their Final Four spot, or will Efes force a Game 5?
