EuroLeague: Jordan Loyd Leads Anadolu Efes Past Partizan in Overtime, Snaps Streak (79-72)

ISTANBUL — Anadolu Efes defeated Partizan 79-72 in overtime on Matchday 36 of the EuroLeague, in the Turkish team's final home game of the season in the competition. Jordan Loyd, with 24 points, was the standout performer in the victory, a night also marked by the return of Shane Larkin, who played for the first time since Matchday 12.

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The game began with a moment of respect in the arena, where both teams observed a minute of silence for the passing of Partizan's legendary coach, Dusko Vujosevic. Following that tribute, the game started with a measured pace and active defenses, a contest that remained competitive throughout much of the night in this EuroLeague matchday.

As the minutes progressed, Anadolu Efes found greater offensive fluidity thanks to the inspiration of Jordan Loyd, who punished Partizan's defense with several decisive plays in the crucial moments of the game. Also key was the interior work of Vincent Poirier, who contributed 17 points and 8 rebounds, while Nick Weiler-Babb orchestrated the offense with 12 assists.

One of the most anticipated moments of the game was the return of Shane Larkin. The Turkish-American point guard played his first game since Matchday 12 of the EuroLeague and contributed 9 points, including important three-pointers during regulation that helped keep his team in the contest.

The end of regulation was dramatic. When Anadolu Efes appeared to have control, Carlik Jones tied the game 65-65 with two free throws with four seconds remaining, sending the game to overtime after Vincent Poirier failed to score on the final buzzer-beater attempt.

In the extra period, Anadolu Efes showed greater composure. The Turkish team remained calm in the decisive moments, managed its possessions better, and proved reliable from the free-throw line to seal the 79-72 victory in this EuroLeague matchday.

For Partizan, the leading scorer was Shake Milton with 12 points, while Sterling Brown and Carlik Jones each added 11. Isaac Bonga also contributed 10 points, though the Serbian team could not sustain the pace in overtime.

With this result in the EuroLeague, Anadolu Efes remains in 19th place with a record of 11-25 and will face Dubai on the road in the next matchday. Partizan, which falls to 15-21, sees its six-game winning streak snapped and will host Zalgiris in its next competition game.