In a league where every game matters, it was one of those rare nights between two playoff contenders that was never a contest as Zalgiris Kaunas left the visiting AS Monaco in the dust en route to a 104-87 victory.

Zalgiris ‘destroys’ Monaco for a season sweep

In a league where every game matters, it was one of those rare nights between two playoff contenders that was never a contest.

A sold-out Zalgirio Arena celebrated a blowout few saw coming, as [Zalgiris Kaunas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/zalgiris-kaunas/zal/) left the visiting [AS Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/as-monaco/mco/) in the dust en route to a 104-87 victory.

“I was enjoying to stand \[on the sideline\], and it was nice to see our team to play like this,” said Zalgiris head coach Tomas Masiulis, whose team got a season sweep of Monaco. The two clubs now hold an identical 15-11 record.

Zalgiris Kaunas-AS Monaco | Round 26 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroLeague

Zalgiris opened the game with an 8-0 run and soon held a double-digit margin, 17-7. At the end of the opening 10 minutes, the hosts were up 35-18 and had set a club record for the most points scored in a first quarter.

Monaco never got closer than 14 points the rest of the way, as the margin was as big as 26 points in the second half. [Azuolas Tubelis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/azuolas-tubelis/008192/) was scoring at will, finishing with a personal-high 26 points and 7 rebounds.

“I made my layups,” said a humble Tubelis, who made 8-of-11 two-point shots and 2-of-5 triples. “My teammates, [Nigel \[Williams-Goss\]](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-williams-goss/007982/), [\[Maodo\] Lo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/maodo-lo/007032/) and [Sylvain Francisco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/sylvain-francisco/007975/), found me. They are high-quality players, it is very special to play with them.”

Zalgiris had 27 assists, as Francisco danced his way through Monaco defense to 19 points and 8 assists. Lo and [Edgaras Ulanovas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/edgaras-ulanovas/002329/) dished 5 apiece, and Williams-Goss had 4 helpers in his return from injury. [Dustin Sleva](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dustin-sleva/011927/) netted 16 points.

Tubelis praised Zalgiris's team-first effort.

“I can prepare myself mentally, but I would be just one player. Everyone has to be on the same page mentally, and I am proud of my team. We received a message that it is a very important game, and we took it from the first minute.”

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If you see Azuolas Tubelis in your dreams tonight, he will be getting career-high buckets. 😴<br><br>26 PTS (CAREER-HIGH)<br>27 EFF (CAREER-HIGH) <a href="https://t.co/9cP5S7o5da">pic.twitter.com/9cP5S7o5da</a></p>&mdash; BC Zalgiris Kaunas (@bczalgiris) <a href="https://twitter.com/bczalgiris/status/2018788442625491127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On the other hand, Monaco suffered its fourth straight loss, despite [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/) having a double-double of 19 points and 10 assists.

Head coach Vassilis Spanoulis said in his postgame interview that Monaco’s off-court problems are not helping things.

“We didn’t exist on the court. It is not only about basketball. Other things bother our minds and destroy our concentration,” Spanoulis said, before adding: 

“But if I have to speak about basketball, Zalgiris destroyed us.”

Game News

Azuolas Tubelis and Sylvain Francisco were two of the Lithuanian's team star performers on the night

Zalgiris Kaunas v AS Monaco (2026-02-03T18:00:00.000Z)

Anadolu Efes ended its nine‑game losing streak with a dominant 107–90 home win over Valencia Basket, highlighted by a breakout performance from Ercan Osmani, a perfect night inside the arc for Kai Jones and a season‑high assist mark for the team. Pablo Laso earned his long-awaited second EuroLeague win as Efes returned to form.

Osmani leads Efes past Valencia to end a nine‑game slide

[Anadolu Efes Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/anadolu-efes-istanbul/ist/) finally found the breakthrough it had been chasing for weeks. In its most complete performance of the season, Efes rolled past [Valencia Basket](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/valencia-basket/pam/) 107–90 at Turkcell Basketball Development Center, giving Pablo Laso his long-awaited second EuroLeague victory with the club. The win snapped a nine‑game losing streak that had stretched back to mid‑December and brought welcome relief to a team desperate to rediscover its rhythm.

Efes wasted no time announcing its intentions, delivering a blistering first quarter that set a new club record for largest opening‑period lead. Energy, pace and unselfish play defined the night as multiple players stepped forward, none more impressively than [Ercan Osmani](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/ercan-osmani/012710/), who rebounded from recent struggles to deliver a commanding performance at both ends of the floor.

For Laso and his players, the victory marked more than just the end of a skid — it was a sign of renewed identity. Efes defended with purpose, pushed the pace with confidence, and executed its offense with the clarity that had eluded the team in recent weeks. By the final buzzer, the sense of relief inside the arena was matched only by the sense of possibility.

Anadolu Efes Istanbul-Valencia Basket | Round 26 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroLeague

Osmani stepped up early against Valencia, being aggressive at both ends of the floor, finding mismatches against [Neal Sako](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/neal-sako/010545/) and [Jaime Pradilla](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/jaime-pradilla/010393/) and getting five points and three rebounds in the opening seven minutes.

He helped Efes set a club record with a 19-point lead at the end of the first quarter, 33-14. Efes had previously amassed 18-point margins after 10 minutes against Benetton Treviso on October 16, 2002, and against CSKA Moscow on March 4, 2021.

Osmani finished the game with 20 points, 7 rebounds and a PIR of 27. He got plenty of help, too. [Kai Jones](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kai-jones/014102/) came off the bench to do what he does best: block shots, force big men out of the paint and thrill the crowd with his outstanding dunks. After missing three games due to injury, [Jordan Loyd](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/jordan-loyd/009754/) returned against one of his former teams with a rock-solid performance.

"It's been a long time that we hadn't won in the EuroLeague, so I'm happy about that. I want to thank all the teammates because we gave everything on the floor. And I think we played very simple, that's why we got that many points. So from now, I think we have to start building on that," Osmani said. "Thanks to our fans, all of them, because we had a really hard period. So it was hard for them also. We couldn't get any good things for them. So after now, I think everything will change, and we are going to be better."

<center>
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"I am happy for my players. I think we did a great effort. Everybody fought a lot from the beginning. We were playing against a team that is playing very good, with a great pace. Probably that helped us to recover a little bit the pace that we need to show, let's say, our best image. We are still missing important players, for sure, but we have to go step by step," Coach Laso said after the game. "And I think today was a very good first step."

[PJ Dozier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/pj-dozier/012742/) and [Saben Lee](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/saben-lee/013389/) combined for 28 points, 13 assists and just 3 turnovers. They helped Efes set a new season-high in assists (26). Jones had a career-high 15 points on 7-of-7 two-point shooting. Jones remained the most effective two-point shooter in the competition this season, having made 41 of 43 shots inside the arc (95.3% 2FG). He hasn't missed a two-point shot since Round 17 against Dubai Basketball.

"I think it started with the heart and mind, my preparation from days long in the past, just seeing how the situations have been and learning from my mistakes. And then I came out with a high level of focus and intensity. So I just want to keep on building on that and being present and have a high level of focus and intensity throughout the whole game," Jones said.

"We just listened to Coach. He taught us a lot from the last games. We have been learning and learning and learning. And I think everybody realized what we need to do. And today was an example of how we have grown as a team."

Efes ends its historic skid with teamwork, energy and star turns from Osmani, Jones, Dozier and Lee

Anadolu Efes Istanbul v Valencia Basket (2026-02-03T17:30:00.000Z)

Storm clouds have hovered over Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens in recent weeks. On the day of the club’s 118th anniversary, Jerian Grant and Kostas Sloukas pushed the Greens back into the sunshine.

Jerian Grant, Kostas Sloukas give Panathinaikos the perfect birthday gift

Storm clouds have hovered over [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/panathinaikos-aktor-athens/pan/) in recent weeks. On the day of the club’s 118th anniversary, [Jerian Grant](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/jerian-grant/011204/) and [Kostas Sloukas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kostas-sloukas/001926/) pushed the Greens back into the sunshine.

Panathinaikos secured an 82-81 win over [Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/mad/) at Telekom Center Athens on Tuesday night, with Grant drilling the game-winner – a fadeaway jumper over Andres Feliz – with 2.3 seconds remaining.

For a moment, Grant appeared destined to be the villain after his foul on [Mario Hezonja](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mario-hezonja/003108/)’s layup allowed the Real Madrid forward to put the visitors 80-81 ahead with 8.7 seconds left. Instead, Grant responded in the best way possible, sending the crowd into raptures.

“My focus was to make a play for my team,” Grant said afterward. “I felt like I let the team down with that bad foul, and with the miss at Maccabi. But my teammates still believed in me. They wanted me to have the ball, and I made the shot.”

Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens-Real Madrid | Round 26 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroLeague

Grant finished with 19 points, nine of them coming in the fourth quarter. Seven of those arrived midway through the period as Panathinaikos opened up a 72-67 lead.

But Real Madrid responded. [Alex Len](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/alex-len/014169/) scored six straight points to tie the game at 73–73, then threw down a dunk over [Kenneth Faried](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kenneth-faried/011284/) – one of two Panathinaikos bigs, along with [Richaun Holmes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/richaun-holmes/014011/), to foul out – as he put the visitors 75-78 up with 30 seconds remaining. The tension inside the arena was palpable.

Once again, Sloukas steadied things.

Real Madrid led 44–36 at halftime, a margin that reflected Panathinaikos’s growing frustration. A loss at Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv, a narrow escape at LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne and a Greek League defeat to Aris Thessaloniki had created a brittle atmosphere around the club.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE SHOT. THE TEAM. THE CELEBRATION. ☘️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeTheGreens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeTheGreens</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/paobcaktor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#paobcaktor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Club1908?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Club1908</a> <a href="https://t.co/u1qTcZyZ72">pic.twitter.com/u1qTcZyZ72</a></p>&mdash; Panathinaikos BC (@Paobcgr) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paobcgr/status/2018802291168714827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Sloukas, though, was composed throughout. After scoring 12 points in the first half, he added eight more in the third quarter to help Panathinaikos close within one after 30 minutes, 60-61.

He scored just two points in the fourth, but they were pivotal – a driving layup with 22 seconds left that cut the deficit to one, 77-78. Moments later, Sloukas and [Cedi Osman](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/cedi-osman/004088/) forced a turnover from [Alberto Abalde](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/alberto-abalde/003733/), leading to [Juancho Hernangomez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/juancho-hernangomez/012712/)’s go-ahead three (80–78).

Hezonja briefly appeared to spoil the night, but Grant had the final word, joining Sloukas as the night’s defining figure.

“It was an amazing game between two great teams, two historic teams, with so many personalities on the court,” Sloukas said. “Both teams fought like hell because the win was very important. We didn’t start well, but after that we hustled a lot and put our bodies on the line. If we had been a little smarter, maybe we could have won more comfortably. But Jerian scored an amazing basket, and we took a very important victory.

“We’re really tired because the schedule is crazy, but this is the EuroLeague. We have to continue and prepare ourselves for Partizan.”

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BIG W! 💚☘️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeTheGreens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeTheGreens</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/paobcaktor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#paobcaktor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Club1908?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Club1908</a> <a href="https://t.co/e4OxxiBACi">pic.twitter.com/e4OxxiBACi</a></p>&mdash; Panathinaikos BC (@Paobcgr) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paobcgr/status/2018803513267196384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Whether it was birthday magic or sheer resolve, the final buzzer brought everyone together – players, coaches and fans alike. Panathinaikos has been tested in recent weeks, but this felt like a turning point.

Despite the noise surrounding the club, the Greens now sit at 16-10, level with Real Madrid, and have climbed back into the top six.

“It’s amazing,” head coach Ergin Ataman said. “For the players, for the group – we played great defense and everyone tried to give everything. Maybe we could have won more easily, but at the end we were tired and made some crucial turnovers. Still, we deserved to win this game, especially because of the hustle we showed after the first quarter.

“Congratulations to the players for the character they showed in this situation. It’s a very important win. We’re level with Real Madrid and we’ve beaten them twice. Our goal is to continue for the top six, maybe the top four. We’ll see.”

Panathinaikos will look to carry that momentum into Serbia, where it faces Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade in the second half of the EuroLeague double-round week, before a mouthwatering showdown with league-leading Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul next week in a rematch of last season’s semifinals.

Real Madrid, currently fourth in the standings, remains on the road as it travels to face Dubai Basketball to close out the double-round week.

The duo delivered as the Greens edged Real Madrid in Round 26

Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens v Real Madrid (2026-02-03T19:15:00.000Z)

Dubai Basketball proved again that it’s a different beast at home in its inaugural EuroLeague campaign. The Coca-Cola Arena has maintained its reputation as a tough place to visit, with the hosts defeating Olympiacos Piraeus 108-98 after what was the club's first-ever overtime in the competition.

Dubai suffocates Olympiacos in overtime for another home win

[Dubai Basketball](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/dubai-basketball/dub/) proved again that it’s a different beast at home in its inaugural EuroLeague campaign. The Coca-Cola Arena has maintained its reputation as a tough place to visit, with the hosts defeating [Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/olympiacos-piraeus/oly/) 108-98 after what was the club's first-ever overtime in the competition.

Only two teams have managed to come out victorious from Dubai’s home court, where Jurica Golemac’s side downed one of the hottest teams in the league. In fact, Olympiacos came into Tuesday’s duel on the back of a five-game winning run, but Dubai demonstrated from the off that it would have none of it.

The hosts hit the ground running with a 9-2 charge that was canceled out by a 0-7 surge from the Reds. [Aleksa Avramovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/aleksa-avramovic/003983/) scored eight first-quarter points, with his team securing a 26-17 lead after 10 minutes.

Dubai didn’t take its foot off the gas, with the Serbian guard taking his tally to 15 points for a 52-40 lead at halftime. Avramovic delivered on both ends, recording four of Dubai’s six steals in the first half, when the hosts forced Olympiacos into 10 turnovers, which led to 13 points in transition.

Dubai Basketball-Olympiacos Piraeus | Round 26 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroLeague

The visitors bounced back in the third quarter and went on a 0-10 run that cut the difference to 74-70 heading into the fourth. The game turned into a back-and-forth affair, with Dubai maintaining the lead heading into crunch time. [Mfiondu Kabengele](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mfiondu-kabengele/012796/) remained calm from the charity stripe and hit two free throws with just three seconds left, but [Evan Fournier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/evan-fournier/013380/) drilled a triple to make it 95-95, sending the game to overtime.

“They scored this three-pointer, we went to overtime, but the team showed their character and fans didn’t give up on us,” Golemac told EuroLeague TV. “We got into overtime with just one thought: to win the game.”

And win it they did. Riding on their momentum, the visitors nailed an open triple through [Thomas Walkup](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/thomas-walkup/008855/), but Dubai tightened up its defense, holding Olympiacos scoreless for the remainder of overtime. A 13-0 run fueled by Kabengele, [McKinley Wright](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mckinley-wright-iv/012606/) and [Dwayne Bacon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dwayne-bacon/011286/) saw Dubai crush the Reds, clinching a victory to open the double-round week in style.

<center>
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“Physical game,” Kabengele admitted after the final buzzer. “\[Olympiacos is a\] great team, well coached. We just knew we had to become physical, made it difficult for them every single shot. Halt their rhythm, rebound the ball, turn the ball over less. And we did that over the course of the game, which is why we were able to stay in it.”

Kabengele ended the duel on 21 points and a career-high 14 rebounds, with Bacon also scoring 21 and picking up 7 boards. Avramovic bagged a season-high 17 points and Wright paired his 18 points with a team-high 7 assists.

Having bounced back from last week’s loss away at Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, Dubai will look to double its wins by defeating Real Madrid on Thursday. And given their home form this season, Golemac’s men look more than capable of completing a perfect double-round week against another EuroLeague powerhouse.

Mfiondu Kabengele ended the game on 21 points and a personal-best 14 rebounds as the hosts grabbed their ninth home victory

Dubai Basketball v Olympiacos Piraeus (2026-02-03T16:00:00.000Z)

The injury bug continues to plague EA7 Emporio Armani Milan, as center Josh Nebo will miss at least the next two weeks with a hamstring injury.

Josh Nebo dealing with hamstring injury

The injury bug continues to plague [EA7 Emporio Armani Milan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/ea7-emporio-armani-milan/mil/), as center [Josh Nebo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/josh-nebo/011199/) will miss at least the next two weeks with a hamstring injury.

Nebo, who is averaging 10.2 points and 5.1 rebounds in 16 EuroLeague games this season, had previously been sidelined with a hamstring injury between Rounds 3 and 9 before a concussion forced him to miss Rounds 11 and 12. 

He has been ruled out of Milan’s two games this week – at home against Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz and on the road against LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne – as well as next week’s home game versus Dubai Basketball.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="it" dir="ltr">🇮🇹Josh Nebo, nel corso della gara di domenica scorsa contro Brescia, ha riportato un&#39;elongazione muscolare del bicipite femorale sinistro che sarà rivalutata in due settimane. Non sarà disponibile per le gare di questa settimana e della prossima<br><br>🇬🇧Josh Nebo suffered a left…</p>&mdash; Olimpia Milano (@OlimpiaMI1936) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlimpiaMI1936/status/2018629349600051679?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Josh Nebo suffered a left hamstring strain during last Sunday’s game against Brescia and will be reevaluated in two weeks,” Milan announced Tuesday. “He will be unavailable for this week’s and next week’s games.”

The 28-year-old joins Leandro Bolmaro, who is out for two weeks with an elbow injury, and Nate Sestina, sidelined since Round 11 with a triceps injury, on Milan’s injury list.

More Milan News

He will be reevaluated in two weeks’ time

This week’s EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast dives into Javi’s unconventional center philosophy, how to survive a nine‑game Tuesday, the best picks from Virtus–ASVEL, winners and losers of the week, Partizan uncertainties and early tips for Round 27 — plus a chaotic “Get Featured, Get Rewarded” segment.

Fantasy Challenge Podcast: Javi’s center theory, Braian Angola buzz and wild fan predictions

It’s time for another packed episode of the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast as co‑hosts [Javier Gancedo](https://x.com/ganchetto) and [Frankie Sachs](https://x.com/MrEuroleague) of [EuroLeague.net](http://EuroLeague.net), and Sport 24's [Vasiliki Karamouza](https://x.com/karamouza_vas) return to break down everything fantasy managers need to know ahead of a chaotic week featuring Rounds 26 and 27. No guests this week; just the trio at full strength, plenty of debates, and more than a few laughs.

The crew reveal their winners and losers of the week, including the rare “winner who didn’t even play” – a moment that sparks another round of laughter and a philosophical question about who exactly makes the rules here anyway. They also tackle the biggest strategic challenge of the week: a nine‑game Tuesday slate that forces managers to make nearly all of their decisions at once. Javi, Frankie and Vasiliki outline how to manage early locks and maintain roster flexibility when almost the entire round tips off on the same night.

From there, the focus shifts to the lone Wednesday matchup: [Virtus Bologna vs. ASVEL](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/virtus-bologna-ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne/E2025/260/). With only one game on the final day, targeting the right players becomes crucial. One name rises above the rest: [Braian Angola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/braian-angola/010465/), who the hosts peg as a legitimate Turn 2 differentiator thanks to his price, skillset and mid‑week upside.

Frankie then introduces an unexpected twist: Javi’s very unconventional logic about centers, which even Javi struggles to explain. Frankie tries to apply logic, Vasiliki attempts to mediate, and listeners are invited to choose sides: Are you #TeamJavi or #TeamFrankie – while everyone agrees, of course, that they are #TeamVasiliki.

The show also digs into the risks and upside of Partizan’s [Bruno Fernando](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/bruno-fernando/013667/) and [Cam Payne](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/cameron-payne/014213/), whose situations could swing fantasy matchups. Then the trio look ahead with important Round 27 teasers, each offering one early must‑have player managers should already be tracking.

As always, the episode wraps with the “Get Featured, Get Rewarded” segment, where the hosts react to some of the most outrageous listener predictions yet. Some are bold, some are outrageous – all are entertaining.

With all the regular features included – lineup reveals, strategy tips and plenty of banter – this week’s episode is a must‑listen for anyone trying to survive another double week and stay ahead of the curve in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge.


From unexpected winners to Partizan question marks, the podcast covers every angle fantasy managers need this week

Kosner Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz v FC Barcelona (2026-02-06T19:30:00.000Z)

Olympiacos Piraeus v Virtus Bologna (2026-02-06T19:15:00.000Z)

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne v EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (2026-02-06T19:00:00.000Z)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv (2026-02-06T19:00:00.000Z)

Anadolu Efes Istanbul v Zalgiris Kaunas (2026-02-06T17:30:00.000Z)

Paris Basketball v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2026-02-05T19:45:00.000Z)

Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2026-02-05T19:30:00.000Z)

FC Bayern Munich v AS Monaco (2026-02-05T19:30:00.000Z)

Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv v Valencia Basket (2026-02-05T19:00:00.000Z)

Dubai Basketball v Real Madrid (2026-02-05T16:00:00.000Z)

Virtus Bologna v LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (2026-02-04T19:30:00.000Z)

Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2026-02-03T19:05:00.000Z)

FC Bayern Munich v Paris Basketball (2026-02-03T19:30:00.000Z)

FC Barcelona v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2026-02-03T19:30:00.000Z)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan v Kosner Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (2026-02-03T19:30:00.000Z)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv (2026-02-03T19:00:00.000Z)

Virtus Bologna will be without Alessandro Pajola for the foreseeable future, as the guard will undergo surgery on his knee in the coming days.

Alessandro Pajola out indefinitely with knee injury

[Virtus Bologna](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/virtus-bologna/vir/) will be without [Alessandro Pajola](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/alessandro-pajola/006739/) for the foreseeable future, as the guard will undergo surgery on his knee in the coming days.

Pajola, who has averaged 4.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.1 steals in 24 EuroLeague games this season, has been dealing with an issue in his left knee and will go under the knife as a result. He was ruled out for Round 25, which was the first game he'd missed this season.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="it" dir="ltr">Aggiornamento sulle condizioni di Alessandro Pajola ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/1D7pBJuhkz">https://t.co/1D7pBJuhkz</a></p>&mdash; Virtus Bologna (@VirtusBo) <a href="https://twitter.com/VirtusBo/status/2018339899322065085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna announces that Alessandro Pajola, following persistent pain and functional limitation in his left knee, has undergone further specific tests which have revealed a lesion to the external meniscus," Virtus confirmed in a statement Monday. 

"The player will therefore undergo surgery in the coming days. Recovery times will be determined following the operation."

More Virtus News

He will undergo surgery in the coming days

With a rare nine game Tuesday and only one Wednesday matchup, Rounds 26 27 present major challenges in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge. Javier Gancedo reviews last week’s hits and misses and highlights key value picks — including Kameron Taylor, Carsen Edwards, Vladimir Lucic, Cam Payne and Ebuka Izundu — while outlining strategy for maximizing in round flexibility.

Fantasy tips, Rounds 26-27: The return of the 9-game Tuesday!

Welcome to a very tricky week in the [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/). Nine games will be played on Tuesday, which leaves a lone Wednesday game, Virtus Bologna vs. LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne, as the only chance for in-round changes. Of course, having players from that game in Round 26 will be critical this week. In addition to the usual suspects, I aim to offer a different approach in this column to help you gain an edge in private leagues and the overall standings.

Before my recommendations, let's take a look at what happened last week. Two of them were great picks: Braian Angola of ASVEL and Talen Horton-Tucker of Fenerbahce. Since he plays on Wednesday, Angola is a good pick this week, too. I don't like to repeat myself, otherwise Sasha Vezenkov of Olympiacos Piraeus would be there every week. Filip Petrusev of Dubai underperformed due to injury, so that was an unlucky pick for fantasy managers. Mario Hezonja of Real Madrid and Tamir Blatt of Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv both gained 0.2 credits, so it's four wins and one loss for me. Nice. Let's see how it goes this week...

Ebuka Izundu, Kameron Taylor, Vladimir Lucic, Cam Payne and Carsen Edwards are featured in this week's article. 

EuroLeague Fantasy tips, Rounds 26-27

### Kameron Taylor, Valencia Basket (13.0 credits)

[Kameron Taylor](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kameron-taylor/011217/) has been Valencia's main scorer all season, and the fact that he was rested in a Spanish League game this weekend tells you that it could be a big week for him. Valencia plays twice on the road, against Efes and Hapoel, and needs Taylor to step up like he has done most of the season. Expect big things from him.

 

### Carsen Edwards, Virtus Bologna (12.0 credits)

[Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/) missed last week's game, but returned to action in the Italian League with a great all-around performance. He had 23 points and 8 assists for a PIR of 28 against BKT EuroCup side Dolomiti Energia Trento. In his previous game against ASVEL, Edwards scored a season-high 36 points and amassed a PIR of 28. And he is one of the few stars who plays on Wednesday!

 

### Vladimir Lucic, FC Bayern Munich (10.6 credits)

Bayern's team captain has had a big role since Coach Svetislav Pesic returned to the club. Over the last two games, [Vladimir Lucic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vladimir-lucic/001288/) has averaged 15.0 points and 5.0 rebounds for a PIR of 21.5. Bayern plays back-to-back games at SAP Garden this week, hosting Paris and Monaco, both of which are high-scoring teams. Lucic should keep posting good numbers.

 

### Cam Payne, Partizan Mozzart Bel Belgrade (10.2 credits)

Partizan has improved a lot over the last three games and [Cam Payne](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/cameron-payne/014213/) has a lot to do with it. He scored 19.8 fantasy points in the wins against Hapoel (in come-from-behind fashion) and Bayern. Payne went on to get 14.0 fantasy points in less than 20 minutes against Milan. There are not many good options at that price.

 

### Ebuka Izundu, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (9.9 credits)

The man of the moment when it comes to Fantasy Challenge centers. [Ebuka Izundu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ebuka-izundu/014029/) has been extremely effective lately, posting high PIRs in limited playing time. He has averaged 29.0 fantasy points in the last three games, with 39.6 in an overtime road victory against Monaco. All for less than 10 credits! Buy him now!

More EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge News

Javier Gancedo shares his recommendations for the coming week in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge

Round 26 of the regular season tips off another double-round week, headlined by direct duels between leading title candidates. Here’s your overview of Tuesday and Wednesday’s action.

At a glance: Round 26 rolls around with a lopsided slate of games

Round 26 of the regular season tips off another double-round week, headlined by direct duels between leading title candidates. Here’s your overview of Tuesday and Wednesday’s action.

## Tuesday, February 3

### [Dubai Basketball vs. Olympiacos Piraeus (17:00 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/dubai-basketball-olympiacos-piraeus/E2025/253/)

Olympiacos (16-8) will look to keep climbing towards the top of the standings with a testing trip to Dubai (11-14). The Reds have hit top form with five straight wins, but extending that won’t be easy against a Dubai team boasting an 8-3 home record. New Olympiacos signing Tyrique Jones made his presence felt with 16 points and 8 rebounds in last week’s win over Barcelona, and he’ll be ready for a bruising battle against Dubai dangerman Mfiondu Kabengele, who has averaged 18.0 points and 6.0 boards in the last three games. The hosts need fit-again shooter Dzanan Musa to find his range after only making 1-of-8 field goals in last week’s loss to Zvezda, while Olympiacos can rely on excellence from Sasha Vezenkov after netting at least 19 points in seven games straight.

### [Anadolu Efes Istanbul vs. Valencia Basket (18:30 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/anadolu-efes-istanbul-valencia-basket/E2025/251/)

Valencia (16-9) is looking to strengthen its position in the playoff places by overcoming struggling Efes (9-16) in Istanbul. The host has lost nine straight to leave coach Pablo Laso still waiting for a first home victory, with a spluttering offense failing to reach 70 points in any of the last three games. At least recent signing Saben Lee is delivering the goods with an average of 15.0 points in his six appearances for the team, and he faces a good showdown with visiting shooter Brancou Badio (11.0 points per game). In the paint, Neal Sako has found his best form for Valencia with 12.0 offensive rebounds in the last three games, and he’ll look to give his team extra possessions by outfighting fit-again Efes center Vincent Poirier.

### [Zalgiris Kaunas vs. AS Monaco (19:00 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/zalgiris-kaunas-as-monaco/E2025/259/)

Two top 10 teams aiming for a return to form meet in Kaunas as Zalgiris (14-11) welcomes Monaco (15-10). The hosts will be keen to keep playing for the full 40 minutes after losing their way in the latter stages of last week’s loss at Baskonia, and they need others to step up and support the consistent scoring of Sylvain Francisco (17.2 points per game). Recently recuperated guard Dovydas Giedraitis is among those hoping to make more impression after averaging just 3.8 points in his five appearances this season, and he also has a key role defensively against visiting superstar Mike James (16.6 points and 6.6 assists per game). Monaco has lost three in a row and needs to find more inside presence after only converting 13-of-28 two-pointers in last week’s loss to Virtus.

### [Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade vs. Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv (20:00 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade-hapoel-ibi-tel-aviv/E2025/252/)

Two teams heading in different directions face a key matchup in Belgrade as resurgent Zvezda (15-10) welcomes faltering Hapoel (16-8). Zvezda has roared back to form with four straight victories, piling on the points with an average of 100.3 points during that run. Jared Butler has been one of the standouts, averaging 14.3 points during the winning run, and he will look to pile more misery on a Hapoel team which has lost two straight during the injury absence of key man Elijah Bryant. The visitors need another big night from Dan Oturu, who combined 18 points and 7 rebounds to help secure an 84-78 victory over Zvezda in December, but the Serbian team will be able to call upon another packed house to create an intimidating atmosphere as it attempts to grab the head-to-head advantage.

### [Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv vs. Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (20:05 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/maccabi-rapyd-tel-aviv-partizan-mozzart-bet-belgrade/E2025/257/)

Maccabi (10-15) will look to boost its playoff hopes by staying perfect at Menora Mivtachim Arena with a visit from Partizan (8-17). The Serbian team’s recent improvement suffered a setback with last week’s loss at Milan, despite Dylan Osetkowski finding his best shooting form of the season with 4 triples. Partizan will lean on the physical presence of recent signing Tonye Jekiri (6.8 rebounds per night) to overcome Maccabi forward Jaylen Hoard, who has grabbed at least 5 boards in seven straight games. In the backcourt, home team playmaker Tamir Blatt is firing from deep with eight triples in the last two games, but he will be challenged by the increasingly impressive Cam Payne (17.0 points average in the last three games).

### [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens vs. Real Madrid (20:15 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/panathinaikos-aktor-athens-real-madrid/E2025/258/)

A battle of giants competing for a top-four place meet as Panathinaikos (10-5) welcomes Real (16-9). The Greens will hope sharpshooter Kendrick Nunn can return from injury but can always rely on veteran playmaker Kostas Sloukas, who warmed up for his 35th meeting with *Los Blancos* by taking last week’s MVP award, combining 26 points and 9 assists to inspire a nervously narrow win at ASVEL. Up against him, Andres Feliz will look to repeat the form which saw him net 18 points in a losing cause at Paris last time out. Real will also hope for more flawless perimeter shooting from Trey Lyles, who has made 10 triples without a miss in the last four games, while Juancho Hernangomez’s combination of three-point shooting and rebounding has a key role for Panathinaikos.

Real Madrid-Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens | Round 11 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroLeague

### [FC Bayern Munich vs. Paris Basketball (20:30 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/fc-bayern-munich-paris-basketball/E2025/256/)

Bayern’s (10-15) late charge towards the playoff places faces its latest challenge with a visit from free-scoring Paris (8-16). The German giant has won five of its last seven games, culminating in a remarkable triumph at league leader Hapoel in Round 25. Isiaha Mike netted 16 points on 7-of-8 field goal shooting in that win, but the real key was limiting Hapoel to just 64 points. That kind of stifling defense will be very much required to overcome a Paris team which ranks third in the league in scoring, and blasted 98 points to down Real Madrid last time out. Nadir Hifi got back to his best with 21 points including 4-of-8 triples, and minimizing his perimeter shooting will be a clear defensive priority for Bayern.

### [FC Barcelona vs. Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (20:30 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/fc-barcelona-fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/E2025/255/)

Reigning champ and league leader Fenerbahce (17-7) faces a major test with a road trip to Barcelona (16-9). The Spanish side has won three straight at home, but needs to prove it can compete with the best after suffering road losses against Olympiacos, Real Madrid and Fener itself in the last six weeks. The game in Istanbul was edged 72-71 by the Turkish team thanks to Wade Baldwin’s block on Kevin Punter’s potential game-winning shot, with Nicolo Melli grabbing 10 rebounds to underline his understated importance. But Barca can now again count on key man Will Clyburn, who returned from a seven-game absence by scoring 14 points in Piraeus last week. The sidelines duel between Xavi Pascual and his former player Saras Jasikevicius adds another twist of intrigue to a captivating contest.

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul-FC Barcelona | Round 18 Highlights | 2025-26 EuroLeague

### [EA7 Emporio Armani Milan vs. Kosner Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (20:30 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/ea7-emporio-armani-milan-kosner-baskonia-vitoria-gasteiz/E2025/254/)

Milan (12-13) will attempt to strength its playoff push by overcoming road strugglers Baskonia (9-16). The Spanish team showed great character to hold off Maccabi last week, partly thanks to 15 points and 7 rebounds from the hard-charging Rodions Kurucs, and now needs to show the same grit to improve its 1-12 road record. Milan snapped a three-game losing streak by taking a badly-needed victory over Partizan last week, and will count on the physical presence of Josh Nebo, who has scored 10+ points in six of the last eight games. Baskonia has been boosted by the return of three-point shooting expert Markus Howard, whose elusiveness will test Milan’s hard-working backcourt hustler Quinn Ellis – who lacks the support of injured again Leandro Bolmaro.

## Wednesday, February 4

### [Virtus Bologna vs. LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (20:30 CET)](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/game-center/2025-26/virtus-bologna-ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne/E2025/260/)

In Wednesday’s sole game, ASVEL (6-19) will attempt to finally grab its first road win of the season with a tough assignment at Virtus (12-13). The Italian team is riding a wave of optimism after Luca Vildoza’s last-second game-winner at Monaco last week, which also saw dynamic forward Derrick Alston continue his great form with a fourth straight double-digit scoring night. Virtus, just two wins short of the playoff places, will demand disciplined defense to subdue ASVEL’s impressive newcomer Braian Angola, whose 20 points nearly shocked Panathinaikos last week. The hosts will also look to cut off the supply lines provided by Thomas Heurtel, who dished 12 assists in that game. To boost its own scoring chances, Virtus will be able to welcome fit-again Carsen Edwards, who featured in the Italian League this past weekend.

Andy West looks ahead to the first half of this double-round week