Panathinaikos vs Valencia prediction

Panathinaikos failed to seal the deal on their home court, faltering in Game 3 with a 91-87 loss. Their defense, particularly in transition, was inadequate, allowing the opposition to score 27 quick points on fast breaks. Kendrick Nunn managed only 13 points before fouling out, leaving the team without its primary offensive weapon at a crucial juncture. Head Coach Ergin Ataman was ejected in the third quarter.

The Greek squad committed 11 turnovers in the first half alone. With a three-point deficit in the final play, they had no backup plan. Nikos Rogkavopoulos took two contested three-pointers under heavy duress from dual defenders. Overall, Panathinaikos converted just 48.5% of their field goals. Matisse Lessort struggled in the paint, often freezing up and allowing easy baskets.

The Spanish team put on a textbook performance in enemy territory. Valencia held control for nearly the entirety of Game 3, reaching a 19-point lead early in the second half. They dominated the boards, securing 41 rebounds to Athens' 33, including an impressive 14 on offense. These second-chance opportunities were pivotal. Jean Montero contributed 16 points and 9 assists, dictating the game’s tempo.

The "Bats" hit 63% of their two-pointers, and their defense excellently executed a double team against Nunn as the shot clock wound down, forcing rushed attempts from the hosts. Cameron Taylor began strong, scoring 9 points in the first quarter, while Brancou Badio added 16 points and 6 rebounds. Notably, Valencia had already claimed victory on this court in the regular season, with a score of 79-89, showing their capability to either maintain a slim lead or snatch victory in Athens.