By Stefanos Tatsios/ info@eurohoops.net
The Basketball Champions League playoffs are over and the Final Four approaches, but fans are trying to nail down the MVP of the 2018-19 season. Many players produced some strong showings and are included in the discussions, but Eurohoops picked out six strong candidates for the MVP award.
TYRESE RICE
Brose Bamberg|Guard|15 May 1987|USA
16.6 pts|2.6 reb|4.7 ast|1 stl|0 blk|3.1 trn|29:07 min|13.2 pir
When Brose Bamberg added Tyrese Rice, many wondered if the American guard will manage to get the German side back on track. He certainly delivered during his Basketball Champions League campaign with numerous strong showings.
Rice was clutch against Banvit and AEK proving again and again that he’s among the top guards of the tournament. Despite the strong competition, the Boston College alumni is definitely among the hot favorites for the MVP honor as well.
VINCE HUNTER
AEK|Center|5 August 1994|USA
18 pts|8.1 reb|1.7 ast|1.3 stl|1.1 blk|1.3 trn|26:30 min| 22.8 pir
Vince Hunter helped AEK win both the Basketball Champions League and the Greek Cup last year, but added on his impressive performances this season with huge statlines in many Basketball Champions League contests to display.
The Queen was eliminated from the Final Four, but Hunter’s campaign was historic to say the least. He was the difference-maker both offensively and defensively. If AEK had made it to the Final Four, he would already be considered the MVP.
PARIS LEE
Telenet Giants Antwerp|Guard|20 April 1995|USA
13.7 pts|2.4 reb|5 ast|1.9 stl|0 blk| 1.7 trn| 29:10 min|13.2 pir
Surprise-package Telenet Giants Antwerp not only advanced to the Final Four, but will host the four top teams of the 2018-19 Basketball Champions League campaign. The side with the home-court advantage won the first two BCL Final Fours and the Belgians certainly hope to extend this run.
Paris Lee has made the best out of his Champions League campaign so far, especially during the playoffs. Without him, Antwerp’s season would likely be utterly different. The Illinois State alumni was the key in the team’s impressive run and warrants a spot in the MVP race.