League-leading Real Madrid (22-6) faces the tough task of ending its surprising three-game losing streak with a trip to dangerous Virtus Segafredo Bologna (17-11), one of three teams currently tied for fifth place.

Virtus aims to prolong Real Madrid's slump

[Rosters](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/virtus-segafredo-bologna-real-madrid/E2023/259/#roster) | [Facts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/tae2324-rs29-game-facts-vir-mad/)[ ](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/tae2324-rs28-game-facts-pan-asv/)| [Notes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/tae2324-rs29-game-notes-vir-mad/) | [Quotes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/tae2324-rs29-prequotes-vir-mad/) |[ TV](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/tv-listings-el/) | [Fantasy](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/fantasy-challenge-tips-round-29/)

The Italian team has lost four of its last six games, all against fellow candidates for a top-four finish, and will again look to [Toko Shengelia](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tornike-shengelia/001133/) for leadership after he scored 15 points in last week's narrow loss at Olympiacos. Real's offensive power was too much for Virtus to handle when the teams met in November, with 18 points and 11 assists from [Facu Campazzo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/facundo-campazzo/005928/) masterminding a convincing 100-74 home victory. But he has been subdued in the three-game losing run, failing to reach double digits in scoring, and savvy Virtus veteran [Daniel Hackett](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/daniel-hackett/001844/) will look to make his life difficult again this week.

[Virtus Stats](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/virtus-segafredo-bologna/statistics/vir/?season=2023-24&phase=All%20phases) | [Madrid Stats](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/statistics/mad/?season=2023-24&phase=All%20phases)

Marco Belinelli vs. Dzanan Musa: The veteran sharpshooter and the young shot-maker will see plenty of each other on Friday.

A big clash at the top of the standings sees unbeaten leader Real welcome red-hot Virtus, who are on a five-game winning streak. October MVP Toko Shengelia face a fearsome showdown with the dynamic Guerschon Yabusele if he, as expected, returns from injury. as these two stars battle for inside dominance.

Real Madrid-Virtus Segafredo Bologna | Round 7 Highlights | 2023-24 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague

Virtus Segafredo Bologna v Real Madrid (2024-03-15T19:30:00.000Z)

Olimpia Milano forward Giampaolo Ricci has founded a charity, Amani Education, that is conducting excellent philanthropic work in Tanzania.

Giampaolo Ricci's family mission in Tanzania (Part 1): 'I feel obligated to do this'

More than 10,000 kilometers separate Milan from Kisaki, Tanzania, but for EA7 Emporio Armani Milan forward [Giampaolo Ricci](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/giampaolo-ricci/001518/), it's a distance well worth traveling – again and again – to help change lives for the better.

It is in Kisaki, in central Tanzania, that Ricci is carrying on a mission that his parents started more than 30 years ago.

### A Ricci family mission

[Amani Education](https://amani.education/amani/) – Ricci's foundation – aims to improve the future for children in Kisaki some 35 years after his parents, Francesco Ricci and Marisa Di Filippo, first arrived in the East African country as volunteer doctors. The not only lived in the area for two years but started their family in Tanzania, where Giampaolo's older brother, Pierbruno, was born in 1990.

"It's really a part of my life and the life of my family," Ricci tells the EuroLeague's official website. "My parents shared with me this passion, this feeling to help others.

"Since 1990, they have kept doing a lot of projects in Tanzania. We went back as a family every two years, so I have been there a lot of times. They built an ambulatory – a small hospital with the maternity unit – and a lot of water wells because the water there is so important but it's not for everybody – it's not free for everybody. They help the population of Tanzania a lot, so I really feel this \[calling\] because of my parents."

The Milan forward is conducting excellent philanthropic work in Tanzania

In 2022, Ricci created Amani Education to try to better the lives of children in the area by helping to complete the construction of a long-delayed secondary school.

"'Amani' in Swahili means 'peace', so it means 'education of peace'. Our first aim is to build a school, a secondary school, in a city that is called Singida \[and specifically in the area of\] Kisaki," Ricci explains. "In this Kisaki area, there is a hill. The owners of this hill are the Assumption Sisters, who are the nuns that are, for me, like angels because they really take care of the children, the girls and the population of that area. So I decided to found this organization to help them build this school."

The lack of a secondary school until now means that most children in the area stop studying when primary school ends after seven years. Only those with money to leave the area continue their education, but that amounts to just 3% of all the local children.

"Secondary school, the most important \[part\] of the children's lives from 13 to 18 years old, can really change the lives of the population in that area," Ricci said.

### Deciding to build a school

After being surprised at the lack of progress regarding the construction of a school upon his most recent visit to Tanzania, in 2022, the Milan player quickly sought to address the issue.

"The school's project is from 2007, so it's very old. When we got there, I saw two blocks of classes already built and behind there were like 200 bricks stocked there," Ricci recalls. "I said to the Sista Schola, the nun I talk to every day: 'Why are the bricks there? Why don't we keep building this school?' And she said to me: 'We got the funds to buy the bricks but we finished, so we have no funds for the cement.' I was like, ‘Oh, wow, they really need some help.'

"The project was there, so I said, 'Okay, let's do something. Let's try to build this school in two-three years.' In one year, we finished these two blocks of the classrooms and then we built a laboratory of physics, biology and chemistry, and we built the toilets for all the children – all the kids will be there. And now the next step is the dormitories, where the children can live, because this school will be like a small college: autonomous, where the people can live there, can eat there, and I think it will be a real change for the people in that area."

### Following in his parents footsteps

Having seen his parents make a difference to the people in the area, Ricci saw the opportunity to do the same.

"I want to try to give back to life what life has given to me," he says. "I feel really privileged, I really feel lucky. I decided to use my name, my friends, my figure as a player, in a positive way. I want to use my name to try to involve a lot of people in this project to share this \[work we are doing\]. I think it's a small thing, but for me it's really important.

"I feel obligated to do this because I have the best job in the world – they pay me to play basketball – and I feel really lucky. We are lucky because we were born in this part of the Mediterranean Sea. I want to help the unlucky people: the least, the people who don't have my possibilities. It's just a little thing, but I'm working a lot on this. I spend a lot of time, a lot of energy \[on this\]. I feel that I have to help, I really think that it is my mission."

<center>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cf_6dxps_he/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cf_6dxps_he/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">Ver esta publicación en Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cf_6dxps_he/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">Una publicación compartida de Giampaolo Ricci (@giamp_ricci)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

In addition to leaning on the Assumption Sisters, who carry out the day-to-day running of Amani Education's work in Kisaki, the volunteer organization is powered from Italy by Ricci himself, Silvia Fassi (his girlfriend), Maria Irene Ricci (his sister), Pierbruno Ricci (his brother), and his parents.

"We are not so structured – we are only one year old – but we are trying to do things in a good way," Ricci comments. "I spend a lot of energy every day to try to organize something, to share this with people, with friends, and I hope that some companies can join this project and help us.

"Our quote is: 'Make it happen.' Because if you don't do it, nobody will do it for you. I think that the big things start from small ones; they start from ourselves, so I want to put a lot of energy into this."

*Part two of this interview will be published on Wednesday.*

[Donate to Amani Education](https://amani.education/donazioni/)

It’s time for another clash of the Greek giants Olympiacos and Panathinaikos


10 reasons not to miss the Greek Derby on Thursday

The result of the upcoming Olympiacos and Panathinaikos clash can be decisive in the battle for the home-court advantage in the EuroLeague playoffs

Olympiacos Piraeus and Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens are facing each other this Thursday in Round 29 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season. This edition is among the most anticipated in recent years between these “eternal rivals” because both are aiming for a top-four finish and home-court advantage in the playoffs. Thursday’s result can be decisive to that quest.

[MORE...](https://www.eurohoops.net/en/euroleague/1642444/10-reasons-not-to-miss-the-greek-derby-on-thursday/)

It’s time for another clash of the Greek giants Olympiacos and Panathinaikos



Olympiacos Piraeus v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2024-03-14T17:45:00.000Z)

Bogdan Bogdanovic, one of the best shooters in basketball, started his career with Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade and won a Turkish Airlines EuroLeague title with Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, two teams he still follows closely.

Bogdan Bogdanovic: 'I love that Partizan is back in the EuroLeague'

Bogdanovic made his EuroLeague debut with Partizan in the 2012-13 season, but only played six games. He exploded a year later, however, averaging 14.8 points and 3.7 assists in 23 games to win the 2013-14 EuroLeague Rising Star trophy. He went on to play for Fenerbahce for the next three season, reaching three consecutive Final Fours and helping the club win its first and only EuroLeague title in 2017. In the process, Bogdanovic was chosen against as the Rising Star in 2014-15, as well as to the 2016-17 All-EuroLeague First Team and the 2010-20 EuroLeague All-Decade Team.

### Bogdanovic on Partizan

Nicknamed "Bogi", Bogdanovic went to play in the NBA, first for Sacramento and currently for Atlanta, where he sat down with Javier Gancedo of the EuroLeague website to talk about his two former clubs. Of course, he follows Partizan and loves the basketball atmosphere at Stark Arena.

"I love that Partizan is back in the EuroLeague. I feel like the EuroLeague league needs that, basketball needs that," Bogdanovic said. "It's such a unique place to play in \[Stark Arena\], the ambience and everything. And you can just tell from the guys who play there, and when they leave the place, their comments are everything you need to know and everything you need to know."

### Bogi on Fener and Saras

Asked about Fenerbahce's coaching change, Bogdanovic looks back at his own experience as a player and thinks it is a good move going forward, especially if the new coach knows the competition.

"In my career, whenever the new coach come in, it's been always a positive thing for the teams because there is a player's reaction," Bogdanovic said. "He's definitely coaching differently and I like the way he coaches. I like the way they play. I think they can play faster. They can play way faster but he will get them right."

With world traveler Javier Gancedo slowly getting closer to Euroleague Basketball headquarters, he and EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast co-host Frankie Sachs sat down to prepare for one of the trickier rounds of the regular season. Episode 26 of the podcast looks ahead to Round 29 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season and tries to examine all the potential pitfalls.

Fantasy Challenge Podcast: We should all have Shane Clyburn!

With world traveler Javier Gancedo slowly getting closer to Euroleague Basketball headquarters, he and EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast co-host Frankie Sachs sat down to prepare for one of the trickier rounds of the regular season. Episode 26 of the podcast looks ahead to Round 29 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season and tries to examine all the potential pitfalls.

Which of this season’s star guards should you – and should you not – have this week? Who are the best players in the cheapest price ranges? What players should you avoid? And what are Javi and Frankie doing? The answers to all these questions will be answered, plus more! Join the [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/home) community and get the best advice on the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast.

The arrival of big man Toko Shengelia to Italy's oldest basketball club, Virtus Segafredo Bologna, has been one of the key factors for the resurgence of the Black V.

Toko Shengelia, Virtus: 'A perfect city to play basketball'

The arrival of big man [Toko Shengelia](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tornike-shengelia/001133/) to Italy's oldest basketball club, Virtus Segafredo Bologna, has been one of the key factors for the resurgence of the Black V.

Shengelia joined in 2022 and was one of the main factors in Virtus lifting the EuroCup trophy and therefore earning the right to play in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague again for the first time since 2008.

"I love it here, to be honest," Shengelia says. "\[Bologna\] is a perfect city to play basketball, not only just the city, but the fanbase here is amazing."

During the 2022-23 season, Virtus and Shengelia struggled a bit to settle down again on Europe's top basketball stage. However, this season, the Italian team has been playing consistently from the beginning under new head coach Luca Banchi and is aiming for a spot in the playoffs.

"Chemistry is the secret ingredient that every team needs," Shengelia explains. "You can have as much talent as you want, but if chemistry does not click, you can't usually go that far."

This season, his 11th in the EuroLeague, Shengelia is averaging 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.0 steals for some of his best numbers ever since his debut in the league.

Shengelia's teammate Daniel Hackett has the perfect definition for the teammate with whom he forms one of the most seasoned duos in the league: "Toko Shengelia is like one of those trains that never stop."

And we better believe him.

The arrival of big man Toko Shengelia to Italy's oldest basketball club, Virtus Segafredo Bologna, has been one of the key factors for the resurgence of the Black V.

Shengelia joined in 2022 and was one of the main factors in Virtus lifting the EuroCup trophy and therefore earning the right to play in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague again for the first time since 2008.

Looking for some ideas to improve your EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge team? Javier Gancedo has you covered. 

Fantasy tips, Round 29: No time to risk!

With six Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season rounds remaining, Every Game Matters is now an understatement. Every possession counts in order to reach the playoffs or make it to the Play-In Showdown, and that means that [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/home) managers have plenty of good options to choose from. Since last week we gave you advice about cheaper players, this time we are going with five more expensive ones to take your Fantasy Challenge team to the next level. Here they are:

[Shane Larkin, Anadolu Efes Istanbul (19.1 credits)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shane-larkin/007200/)

Larkin comes off an outstanding game against FC Bayern Munich: 28 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists and a PIR of 33 in a winning effort. In the last four games, since Tomislav Mijatovic was made the head coach, Larkin is averaging 19.8 points on 14-for-26 three-point shooting and a PIR of 27.5. Hard to ignore, right?

[Jan Vesely, FC Barcelona (16.1 credits)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jan-vesely/000925/)

Vesely goes against Partizan, one of his former teams, this week. He also does it after a monster Round 28 performance against Valencia: 21 points on 10-for-10 shooting, 3 rebounds and a PIR of 25. Vesely recently extended his contract with Barca and is on a mission to prove his team made the right decision.

Shane Larkin, Joel Bolomboy, Shabazz Napier, Nando De Colo and Jan Vesely are featured in this week's article.

EuroLeague Fantasy tips: Round 28

[Shabazz Napier, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (10.7 credits)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shabazz-napier/011224/)

Napier is on fire, back to his previous level in Milan. In Round 28, Napier had 15 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and a PIR of 24, hitting the game's most critical shot to beat Partizan. This weekend, Napier had a PIR of 29 in a losing effort against Virtus. There's no better option in his price range!

[Nando De Colo, LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (12.1 credits)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nando-de-colo/002100/)

Nando is back. We know he came back in the French Cup, what we mean is that he is back at his usual top-class level. Last week, despite ASVEL's loss against Panathinaikos, De Colo had 15 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and a PIR of 25. ASVEL may be eliminated but De Colo will keep going, guaranteed.

[Joel Bolomboy, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (11.8 credits)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/joel-bolomboy/009035/)

It has been a great season for Bolomboy in general, and in the last couple of rounds in particular. In those two games, Bolomboy averaged 11.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and a PIR of 19.5. Zvezda needs to play physical against Josh Nebo, and that makes Bolomboy even more important in Round 29.

Round 29 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague is headlined by a mouthwatering Greek derby and the reigning champ aiming to halt a slump. Here is your overview of the upcoming action.

This Week: Greek Derby opens a slate of pivotal clashes

### Thursday, March 14

[Olympiacos Piraeus vs. Panathinaikos Aktor Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/olympiacos-piraeus-panathinaikos-aktor-athens/E2023/255/)

The most important Greek derby in years will see Panathinaikos (18-10) attempt to keep hold of third place by winning at Olympiacos (17-11). Both teams are in great form, with the Reds winning five in a row while Ergin Ataman's team has triumphed in three straight. The opening-week meeting between the teams saw Olympiacos win 78-88, powered by 17 points and 10 rebounds from [Alec Peters](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/alec-peters/008829/), meaning Georgios Bartzokas's team has now won five derbies in a row. But Panathinaikos could not be more motivated to end that slide and will look to feed off the energy provided by [Mathias Lessort](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mathias-lessort/003842/), who has a PIR of at least 20 in five consecutive games. Two of the league's best defenders will also battle for backcourt dominance as [Thomas Walkup](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/thomas-walkup/008855/) takes on [Jerian Grant](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jerian-grant/011204/).

[Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul vs. Valencia Basket](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul-valencia-basket/E2023/258/)

Fresh from last week's statement-making win in Madrid, Fenerbahce (17-11) will look to keep pushing for the top four against a Valencia team (13-15) battling to stay in the top ten. The visitor will look to the dynamic [Semi Ojeleye](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/semi-ojeleye/011982/) to match the hustle of Fenerbahce's do-it-all [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/), who powered the road win against Real Madrid with 17 points and 12 rebounds, and can take the confidence of knowing it has already beaten the Turkish team once this season with a 77-74 victory in Round 2. [Brandon Davies](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/brandon-davies/007870/) top scored on that occasion with 18 points, and he has a key role in the paint against Fener center [Johnathan Motley](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/johnathan-motley/011157/), who has posted double-digit scoring in eight consecutive games.

Valencia Basket-Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul | Round 2 Highlights | 2023-24 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague

[Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade vs. Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade-maccabi-playtika-tel-aviv/E2023/257/)

Faltering Zvezda (10-18) will look to get back on track against a Maccabi (15-13) team aiming for a third straight win. Zvezda has lost four in a row to drop away from playoff contention, and knows it can't afford many more missed chances. Maccabi backcourt dynamo [Wade Baldwin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/wade-baldwin-iv/009863/) will take some stopping after scoring at least 16 points in nine consecutive games. The Serbian team could look to slow the pace by controlling the game through its frontcourt, where [Luka Mitrovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/luka-mitrovic/002553/) had a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds in last week's loss at Monaco. Earlier this season, currently injured [Milos Teodosic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/milos-teodosic/jdr/) stunned Maccabi with 27 points and 14 assists to power a 92-98 road win, and Zvezda needs similar inspiration this time around.

[ALBA Berlin vs. AS Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/alba-berlin-as-monaco/E2023/253/)

Unstoppable Monaco (18-10) will look to make it eight straight wins with a trip to face rock-bottom ALBA, which has lost five in a row. Although [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/) grabbed all the attention after becoming the competition's all-time leading scorer during last week's win over Zvezda, [Elie Okobo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/elie-okobo/011212/) showed he is also a shining talent in the Monaco backcourt with 14 points and 7 assists. Big man [Donatas Motiejunas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/donatas-motiejunas/lcz/) is also in good form with double-digit scoring in three of the last four games. James, though, remains the key man and he led the way, scoring 17 points, in his team's 86-75 victory over ALBA earlier in the season. [Matt Thomas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/matt-thomas/008967/) led the German team with 17 points on that occasion, and he always provides a deep threat with multiple triples in four straight games.

AS Monaco-ALBA Berlin | Round 4 Highlights | 2023-24 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague

[Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz vs. EA7 Emporio Armani Milan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/baskonia-vitoria-gasteiz-ea7-emporio-armani-milan/E2023/256/)

A key battle between direct rivals will see Baskonia (15-13) host a Milan (12-16) team boosted by a dramatic win over Partizan last time out. [Shabazz Napier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shabazz-napier/011224/) was Milan's game-winning hero in that game, and he faces a tough task in containing the influence of [Codi Miller-McIntyre](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/codi-miller-mcintyre/009048/), who has registered PIRs of at least 20 in three consecutive games. Baskonia has won three in a row at home, scoring 92, 94 and 88 points, so the visiting team will need the same kind of defensive excellence that earned a 76-67 win over the Spanish side in December. Milan's frontcourt also stood out to gain that victory, with [Nicolo Melli](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolo-melli/002849/) scoring 21 points and [Johannes Voigtmann](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/johannes-voigtmann/007201/) grabbing 12 rebounds. They face a compelling battle with the Baskonia duo of [Tadas Sedekerskis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tadas-sedekerskis/007230/) and [Chima Moneke](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/chima-moneke/012201/).

[FC Barcelona vs. Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/fc-barcelona-partizan-mozzart-bet-belgrade/E2023/254/)

Barcelona (19-9) will attempt to protect second place with a visit from a Partizan team (13-15) looking to end a run of eight straight road losses to the hosts. Former Partizan hero [Jan Vesely](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jan-vesely/000925/) has been unstoppable for Barca recently, averaging 16.8 points in the last four games and making 29 of his 34 two-point attempts in the process. The task of containing him will fall to [Frank Kaminsky](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/frank-kaminsky/012743/) and [Bruno Caboclo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/bruno-caboclo/012096/), who had 13 points and 5 rebounds in last week's painful loss at Milan. In the backcourt, [Aleksa Avramovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/aleksa-avramovic/003983/) has emerged as Partizan's leader with at least 16 points in three of the last four games, while the Serbian team will be more than familiar with threat of [Nico Laprovittola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolas-laprovittola/006435/) after he netted 20 points on 6-for-10 three-point shooting when Barca won 83-92 in Belgrade in October.

Anadolu Efes Istanbul-LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne | Round 3 Highlights | 2023-24 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague

### Friday, March 15

[LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne vs. Anadolu Efes Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne-anadolu-efes-istanbul/E2023/261/)

After blasting 105 and 109 points in its last two home games, Efes (12-16) will attempt to keep alive its fragile postseason hopes by ending a seven-game losing run on the road and overcoming ASVEL (6-22). October's meeting between the teams saw Efes prevail 89-84 in Istanbul behind 19 points from [Will Clyburn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/will-clyburn/004888/), who looks to be recovering his best form after scoring 17 and 21 points in the last two games. ASVEL has been boosted by the return from injury of [Nando De Colo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nando-de-colo/002100/), who has scored 15 and 13 points in his two games back from injury. The French legend now needs a PIR of 19 to become the first in competition history to reach a career total of 5,000, and his backcourt battle with fellow scoring ace [Shane Larkin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shane-larkin/007200/) could be crucial.

[FC Bayern Munich vs. Zalgiris Kaunas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/fc-bayern-munich-zalgiris-kaunas/E2023/260/)

Two direct rivals aiming to climb closer to the top 10 go head to head for a vital meeting as Andrea Trinchieri takes Zalgiris (11-17) to face his former team, Bayern (12-16). The German team will be looking for a defensive improvement after allowing 109 points in last week's loss against Efes, which also saw veteran leader [Vladimir Lucic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vladimir-lucic/001288/) make 5 of 5 triples in his best game since returning from injury. November's meeting between the teams was a thriller, edged 74-73 by Zalgiris with a game-winning basket from team leader [Keenan Evans](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/keenan-evans/011218/), who has scored at least 18 points in each of the last four games. Slowing down Evans will be the focus of Pablo Laso's defensive preparations.

[Virtus Segafredo Bologna vs. Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/virtus-segafredo-bologna-real-madrid/E2023/259/)

League-leading Real (22-26) faces the tough task of ending its surprising three-game losing streak with a trip to dangerous Virtus (17-11), one of three teams currently tied for fifth place. The Italian team has lost four of its last six games, all against fellow candidates for a top-four finish, and will again look to [Toko Shengelia](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tornike-shengelia/001133/) for leadership after he scored 15 points in last week's narrow loss at Olympiacos. Real's offensive power was too much for Virtus to handle when the teams met in November, with 18 points and 11 assists from [Facu Campazzo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/facundo-campazzo/005928/) masterminding a convincing 100-74 home victory. But he has been subdued in the three-game losing run, failing to reach double digits in scoring, and savvy Virtus veteran [Daniel Hackett](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/daniel-hackett/001844/) will look to make his life difficult again this week.

FC Bayern Munich v Zalgiris Kaunas (2024-03-15T19:30:00.000Z)

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne v Anadolu Efes Istanbul (2024-03-15T19:00:00.000Z)

Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz v EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (2024-03-14T19:30:00.000Z)

FC Barcelona v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2024-03-14T19:30:00.000Z)

ALBA Berlin v AS Monaco (2024-03-14T19:00:00.000Z)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (2024-03-14T18:00:00.000Z)

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul v Valencia Basket (2024-03-14T17:45:00.000Z)

Building on the success of Off-Court, an event that merges basketball and urban culture, Euroleague Basketball and Turkish Airlines introduce Hoop District, a brand-new competition that will see content creators from all around Europe compete to be crowned European champions on and off the court and fight for a €10,000 cash prize!

Euroleague Basketball launches 3x3 content creators tournament 'Hoop District'

**Paris and Berlin to host inaugural season.**

[**The tournament will be hosted within Euroleague's Off Court urban culture events**](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/euroleague-off-court-event-returns-with-a-bigger-splash-in-paris-and-berlin/)

Building on the success of Off-Court, an event that merges basketball and urban culture, Euroleague Basketball and Turkish Airlines introduce Hoop District, a brand-new competition that will see content creators from all around Europe compete to be crowned European champions on and off the court and fight for a €10,000 cash prize!

Hoop District is not your average basketball tournament; it's a disruptive celebration of talent, culture, and the dynamic intersection of sports and social media. Embracing the spirit of the modern era, Hoop District is poised to captivate a young and diverse audience, bringing together basketball enthusiasts and social media followers for an unforgettable experience.

Hoop district is an innovative, one-day 3x3 tournament where six top Influencers – [Marco D'Uva](https://www.instagram.com/marcoduva/) (Italy), [Dimitris Kyrsanidis](https://www.instagram.com/dimitris_dk_kyrsanidis/) (Greece), [Reda Ouahbi](https://www.instagram.com/rookicks_) (France), [SBB](https://www.instagram.com/sbb_uk/) (UK), [Tresco](https://www.instagram.com/tresco_ball/) (Spain) and [Valentina Vignali](https://www.instagram.com/valentinavignali/) (Italy) – will jump from the screen to become team captains. These influential figures, supported by their vast social media reach, will not only lead their respective teams but also hand-pick the most promising male and female players, injecting a fresh and dynamic energy into the competition. . Hoop District also sees the introduction of special and exciting game rules – including "Buckle-Up" substitution requirements and four innovative "Power-Up" play options, of which two can be invoked by each team in every game – that will make this new competition truly entertaining.

Hoop District Paris will tip off on March 30 at the brand-new Adidas Arena with six participating teams divided into two groups. The best two teams of the Paris Hoop District edition will qualify for the Berlin edition. Hoop District Berlin will be part of the Final Four celebrations in the German capital and be played on May 23 with four participating teams: the two winners of the Paris edition, a local Berlin team, and an all-star team. The winner of Hoops District will earn a cash prize of €10,000, while engagement will also be rewarded with a €5,000 bonus prize for the team achieving the biggest social media impact.

Hoop District is designed for the digital age. From live highlights of the thrilling matches to behind-the-scenes glimpses of player interactions, fans can expect a constant flow of engaging content. Social media platforms will serve as a virtual court where the excitement of the event extends far beyond the physical arena.

With Paris and Berlin as the chosen battlegrounds, Hoop District effortlessly blends the cosmopolitan charm of these cities with the raw energy of urban basketball culture. The event promises a visual spectacle, both on and off the court, as players showcase their skills against the backdrop of these iconic European cities.

Hoop District is tailor-made for dynamic and trend-conscious youth. By infusing elements of pop culture, music and street style, the event aims to resonate with the younger demographic, making basketball not just a sport but a lifestyle.

Join us as we redefine the game. Hoop District is where sports and culture collide.

What do you get when you cross a surprise-filled 3x3 format with the top basketball influencers in Europe battling for a 10.000 EUR cash prize? And then you unleash them in Paris and Berlin? Here's the lowdown on how Hoop District is poised to drop a street-ball extravaganza on two iconic capitals starting soon.