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abr 28 2026ISTANBUL. Fenerbahçe opened the EuroLeague playoffs with authority, defeating Zalgiris Kaunas 89-78 in the first game of the series. The Turkish defending champions found their offensive leader in Tarik Biberovic with 26 points to take a 1-0 series lead and take the first step toward the Final Four in Athens.
The atmosphere at Ulker Sports Arena pushed an intense Fenerbahçe from the opening tip, solid on both ends of the floor. The squad coached by Sarunas Jasikevicius took an early lead thanks to their pace and three-point shooting, closing the first quarter with a 22-20 advantage that set the tone for the matchup.
The best moment for the home team came in the second quarter. That's when Tarik Biberovic showed his best form, punishing every defensive breakdown and leading a run that allowed Fenerbahçe to break open the game before halftime. With a 47-29 lead at the break, the Turkish team had the victory well in hand in this crucial EuroLeague playoff game.
After halftime, Zalgiris Kaunas responded. The Lithuanian squad elevated their competitive level and found scoring from Nigel Williams-Goss, the visiting team's leading scorer with 24 points and 6 assists. Moses Wright also contributed 19 points, and Sylvain Francisco added 15 points and 6 assists to cut into the deficit and bring some tension back to the contest.
However, when the game called for composure and control, Fenerbahçe responded with maturity. Wade Baldwin added 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Taylen Horton-Tucker scored 15 points and Nicolo Meli contributed 13 points and 5 rebounds. That roster depth allowed the defending champions to contain any visiting comeback attempt and enter the fourth quarter with a comfortable lead (65-57).
In the decisive stretch, Fenerbahçe reasserted their physicality, pace, and experience to seal a clear victory in the EuroLeague. Additionally, the Ottoman squad secured their first win against Zalgiris Kaunas this season, after losing both regular season matchups.
Game 2 of the series will also be played in Istanbul this Thursday, where Fenerbahçe will look to travel to Kaunas with a 2-0 series lead, while Zalgiris will attempt to regain competitive form in a series still very much in play.
