Panathinaikos snatch narrow win at Valencia
In a breathless conclusion at the Roig Arena, Panathinaikos Athens snatched a one-point victory (68-67) over Valencia, sealing their win with a decisive late basket. The visitors, who held a seven-point lead at halftime (32-39) and a five-point advantage entering the final period (49-54), saw their lead evaporate before ultimately prevailing by the slimmest of margins. Valencia, despite a disappointing 18% three-point shooting performance (6/33), benefited from significant contributions from their bench, spearheaded by Jean Montero who posted 15 points and 4 assists. Braxton Key chipped in 12 points off the bench for the home side. However, Panathinaikos drew strength from Mathias Lessort's 12 points and 7 rebounds, alongside Tj Shorts' 12 points, to hold firm despite Valencia's slight rebounding edge (40 to 34). The Greens' 10 steals also proved impactful. This hard-fought win sees Panathinaikos solidify their playoff aspirations.