Gaziantep avoid royal comeback on night of big wins

MUNICH (FIBA Europe Cup) - A late bout of complacency nearly cost Gaziantep dearly in their opening game of the FIBA Europe Cup Second Round, whilst it was an easier night for other title contenders.

Playing host to the Sodertalje Kings, Gaziantep appeared on course for a straightforward victory in the south of Turkey, taking a comfortable 64-47 lead into the final 10 minutes.

However, finding themselves outscored 19-8 in the decisive frame, they were somewhat fortunate to hold on for the 72-66 victory.

"I have to give credit to my team because we came from 22 points back and we had the chance to win the game," stated Toni Bizaca, who scored 10 points in the last quarter, following the game.

His opposite Erden Erdyuz was a little lost as to explain what happened in the final frame. "We played a strange game tonight.

"Everything was OK until the last five minutes, and somehow we relaxed. If you play a dangerous team like Sodartalje Kings you can never relax. We learned our lesson."

With 14 points and 8 rebounds, Davon Jefferson was the pick of the players for the home team.

Around The League

For most other winning teams on Wednesday night, victory came in a lot less complicated fashion.

Istanbul club Demir Insaat continued their impressive European campaign, stunning Antwerp Giants 21-7 in the opening quarter on the way to an 81-67 win. 

Lithuanian high-flyers Prienu-Birstono were another club to offset domestic mixed fortunes with European success, taking care of Redwell-Gunners 91-72.

Shooting at 72% inside the paint, Lukoil Academic were able to ease away from Portuguese challengers SL Benfica 84-72.

German side Bonn had the honour of recording the biggest win of the evening, comfortably accounting for APOEL 96-58 as head coach Predrag Krunic was afforded the luxury of clearing his bench with all players contributing to the scoresheet.

Despite making the trip to Groningen without the high-flying Frank Elegar, BC Enisey will still be able to make the long trip home with a win in the bag, holding on for an 84-76 victory.

Rounding out the evening's action from France were Nanterre 92, who held on against a pesky Kormend outfit 87-77. Former German national team player Heiko Schaffartzik was prominent in the win with 18 points on 4-of-7 three-pointers.

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