Steel-Tough Panathinaikos Storms Valencia and Takes Series Lead!



Seven-time champions Panathinaikos sent a powerful message from the very first game of the series, proving their championship pedigree with a massive 68-67 road victory over Valencia to secure the perfect 1-0 start. Backed by ironclad defense in the decisive moments and offensive leadership from Kendrick Nunn and T.J. Shorts, the Greens escaped the hostile Roig Arena and immediately seized control of the series. Game 2 is set for next Thursday (30/04, 21:45), once again on Spanish soil.

Panathinaikos entered the contest with determination from the opening tip, dictating the tempo through aggressive defense and Nunn’s offensive consistency. The American guard caught fire early, pushing his team to a 5-15 advantage while Valencia struggled to find answers against the visitors’ suffocating pressure. Despite missed chances to stretch the margin even further, the Greek side remained firmly in control and closed the first quarter ahead by eight (15-23).

In the second quarter, Ergin Ataman’s men maintained the same intensity. Grigonis provided key scoring solutions, Lessort dominated inside the paint, and Shorts added energy and composure, allowing Panathinaikos to preserve a steady cushion throughout. Valencia attempted to respond mainly through perimeter shooting, but the Greens headed into halftime with a valuable seven-point lead (32-39).

The third quarter brought increased intensity as the Spaniards raised the pressure and capitalized on moments of offensive stagnation from Panathinaikos to cut the deficit. However, whenever the hosts seemed ready to shift momentum, Nunn delivered crucial individual plays, while Shorts’ smart decision-making kept Panathinaikos in front (49-54).

The final quarter turned into a true thriller. Valencia fought back to level the score and applied relentless pressure, but Panathinaikos refused to break. Lessort contributed vital points, Shorts came through with enormous possessions under pressure, and Nunn, even with just one free throw in the closing seconds, restored the lead. On the final defensive stand, Hayes-Davis produced the decisive steal, sealing a monumental away victory for Panathinaikos.