By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Coming out of the derby of the eternal enemies, the biggest game in Round 8 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season, Evan Fournier is pumped up for the remainder of the campaign, his first in Europe following 12 consecutive years in the NBA.
Fournier, 32, explained his reaction to a dagger in front of fellow former NBA player Cedi Osman, lifting Olympiacos over rival Panathinaikos Aktor in OAKA Altion on Friday.
“I was just letting my enthusiasm out, it’s nothing personal,” mentioned the experienced French winger, “When the crowd gets going and going to hear them just be quiet because you make a great play, it’s an unbelievable feeling.”
🔴🔥Evan Fournier loved his first derby in the Euroleague!
🗣️Evan Fournier: “I was just letting my enthusiasm out it’s nothing personal”. pic.twitter.com/zT8qDU69yh
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) November 10, 2024
Responding to the first lead of the Greens, the triple with 2:51 remaining was followed up with yet another triple in the last minute of the fourth quarter of the Greek derby, highlighting a 22-point showing. Fournier made 9/16 field goals, including four three-pointers.
Ecstatic supporters of Olympiacos meeting the team in Piraeus later Friday to further celebrate the win and build additional excitement.
“First EuroLeague derby was special. Long season ahead of us, let’s keep building. Thanks to the Olympiacos fans waiting for us at our arrival,” Fournier wrote on his Instagram account.
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A long and successful career in the NBA but far from similar atmospheres and fan reactions.
“It is a wonderful feeling, especially to win on the road,” Fournier described his emotions after the game, “The atmosphere was great. It was a tough game, they have a lot of good players. I am proud because it is a team win.”