Fenerbahce was down for most of the first half, but made a triumphal return to beat AS Monaco 91-95 on the road in Game 1 of the EuroLeague playoff series. Fenerbahce made the break without Jonhathan Motley, while the Turkish giants lost Scottie Wilbeking with injury during the third quarter.
Fenerbahce was led by Nigel Hayes Davis who had 19 points and seven rebounds. At the same time, Tyler Dorsey and Nathan Sestina played a crucial role. The Greek international had a thrilling contribution registering 13 points, seven rebounds and 5 assists. Nick Calathes added 17 points while Sestina put up 16.
For AS Monaco, Elie Ekobo led the way with 19 points, while Mike James added 16. Monaco had control for most of the regulation taking a 72-63 lead mid-way the fourth quarter. Fenertbahce stayed in the game thanks to Sestina’s and Calathes big plays that brought the Turkish giants forth, 76-77.
Fener came close to finish the game there by taking a 76-80 advantage but Jarron Blossomgame brought the Monegasques back with a three (79-80).
Eventually, the teams went to overtime after getting tied at 81-81. Marko Guduric and Mike James missed the final shot for each team in the regulation. In the overtime, Fenerbahce had the momentum and gut out a massive road win to start the EuroLeague Playoffs series.
AS Monaco loses first-half double; digit lead- Fenerbahce takes control in the OT
AS Monaco was ahead during the first three quarters and took a 39-27 lead late in the second quarter. The Monegasques closed the game ahead 46-37 in the intermission and showed that they are ready to protect their home.
Alas, Sarunas Jasikevicius group used a great run in the second half shooting 46.2% from three for the game and dominating in the extra period to get the victory. Fener allowed Monaco to shoot 29.6% from beyond the arc, while they were clearly out-rebounded by the visitors (30-41).
The two teams will return to Salle Gaston Medecin Friday for Game 2 of the EuroLeague playoff series.
