By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
AEK won the double-headed eagles’ two-game series despite its 63-62 loss to PAOK on Wednesday. The OAKA Olympic Indoor Hall looked like last year’s Final Four and proved a huge advantage for the Basketball Champions League title holders with both clubs held to poor shooting percentages.
With Ilias Papatheodorou’s side in its rear-view, the Queen is looking to recoup its Final Four spot. Vince Hunter, leading MVP candidate, finished with eleven points and seven rebounds. Jonas Maciulis added ten points.
PAOK kept thing interesting, started with a 4-0 run and got back in front during the second half gaining a five-point lead in the beginning of the fourth period, but the first leg nine-point deficit never got into reach. Johndre Jefferson’s 11 points weren’t enough for the upset in Athens.
Luca Banchi’s side will face Brose Bamberg in the quarterfinals with former AEK star Nikos Zisis coming to town. The visitors’ BCL run, however, ended at the Round of 16 stage for the third straight year.
Photo Credit: Basketball Champions League