Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade revived its EuroLeague season on Wednesday by defeating Anadolu Efes Istanbul 91-81 at the Belgrade Arena. This win, fueled by impressive perimeter shooting, advances Zvezda to a 17-12 record and strengthens their position in the playoff race.
Butler’s Stellar Shooting Fuels Zvezda’s Offensive Surge
Jared Butler was a standout performer, converting seven of nine three-point attempts and scoring 21 points in just over 22 minutes. His efficient shooting was the highlight of the night for Zvezda. The team collectively sank 12 of 24 shots from three-point range, with notable contributions from Nikola Kalinic, who made two of three triples, while Codi Miller-McIntyre and Ognjen Dobric provided timely shots from beyond the arc.
Key Transition to Interior Play Secures the Win
Though early scoring featured sharp perimeter shooting, Zvezda’s decisive moments came without basket from long range. After Kalinic’s triple late in the second quarter put them ahead 35-32, Zvezda maintained the lead. Anadolu Efes responded with an intense third quarter, scoring 25 points in just over eight minutes and threatening momentum. However, Zvezda shifted focus to attacking the paint aggressively between Butler’s sixth and seventh threes, going nearly 12 minutes without a three-pointer but scoring seven two-point field goals through drives and offensive rebounds.
Rebounding Advantage and Defensive Intensity Make the Difference
Zvezda dominated the boards, outrebounding Efes 41-32, including 13 offensive rebounds that resulted in 12 second-chance points. This control of the glass played a critical role in a tightly contested game. Defensively, Zvezda intensified their effort in the final quarter, limiting Efes to a single field goal during a crucial six-minute stretch that opened a gap. Miller-McIntyre excelled in managing the game tempo, posting 12 points, six rebounds, and six assists with just one turnover.
Efes Struggles Despite Strong Individual Performances
Anadolu Efes was led by PJ Dozier, who scored 21 points, and Isaia Cordinier with 14 points. However, the team’s overall performance was insufficient to overcome Zvezda, dropping Efes to 9-20 and placing them near the bottom of the EuroLeague standings.
Looking Ahead: Zvezda’s Next Challenge Against Bayern Munich
Crvena Zvezda prepares to host FC Bayern Munich next Friday, seeking to reinforce their top-six standing. The recent victory showcased the team’s ability to combine sharp perimeter shooting with physical, playoff-caliber interior play, setting a strong foundation for the remainder of the season.
