Valencia Basket welcomes Boulogne Metropolitans in the quarterfinals, giving fans the chance to see two of the best big men in the competition, Bojan Dubljevic and Vince Hunter.
Major Matchup: Valencia's Dubljevic vs. Metropolitans' Hunter
Valencia relies on Dubljevic to make the different in the paint. Dubljevic, a two-time EuroCup champion, is the competition's all-time leading scorer (1,595 points) and rebounder (745). He was named to the 2016-17 and 2018-19 All-EuroCup First Team and to the 2011-12 and 2013-14 All-EuroCup Second Team. Dubljevic is also the only player to be chosen EuroCup Rising Star twice, in 2013 and 2014. He is averaging 8.8 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 20 minutes per game this season. Dubljevic should use his deep shooting range, outstanding post kills and experience in this matchup.
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Hunter was chosen to the 2020-21 All-EuroCup Second Team and was the competition's Top 16 MVP last season. He is playing a star role for Metropolitans this season, averaging 12.8 points and a PIR of 17.6 in 17 games. Hunter ranks sixth in rebounds (7.4 rpg.), is tied for third in steals (1.6 spg.) and ninth in blocks (0.9 bpg.). Only one other player - Kevarrius Hayes of Frutti Extra Bursaspor - ranks among the top 10 in all three categories. Hunter is more mobile and athletic, finishes above the rim and may try to use his quickness and transition game against Dubljevic.