On February 25, 2026, Crvena Zvezda claimed a significant 91-81 win over Anadolu Efes in Round 29 of the EuroLeague, leveraging Jared Butler’s outstanding three-point performance. Playing at their home arena, the ABA League team capitalized on the support of their crowd while demonstrating resilience against a Turkish side grappling with injuries and off-court challenges, including Shane Larkin’s groin issues and controversial media remarks. Butler’s remarkable shooting display was pivotal to this crucial victory.
Strong Start Sets the Stage for Battle
Crvena Zvezda came into this match brimming with confidence, fresh off their sixth consecutive Radivoj Korać Cup triumph. In contrast, Anadolu Efes was still recovering from a semi-final exit in the Turkish Cup and disruptions surrounding their key player. Anadolu Efes, coached by Pablo Laso, started intensely, spreading their scoring effectively and containing Zvezda’s offensive efforts, holding a 23-19 lead by the end of the first quarter. Despite Anadolu Efes’ efforts, the defensive focus on players like Codi Miller-McIntyre kept their scoring impact limited early on.
Jared Butler’s Immediate Impact and Defensive Strength
With Crvena Zvezda trailing early, head coach Sasa Obradovic introduced Jared Butler, whose immediate success from beyond the arc altered the game’s momentum. Butler swiftly drained three three-pointers, igniting the crowd and boosting his team’s confidence. Alongside Butler, Ebuka Izundu’s strong two-way contributions and the team’s tight perimeter defense neutralizing Saben Lee proved decisive. By halftime, Zvezda had taken control, leading 44-37, with only Isaia Cordinier managing to keep Anadolu Efes competitive, scoring 12 of their points in the first half.
Jared Butler Continues to Dominate in the Third Quarter
The second half saw no slowdown from Butler, who added three more three-pointers during the third quarter, putting Anadolu Efes under serious pressure. The Turkish team, however, found some answers as P.J. Dozier and Jordan Loyd exploited Crvena Zvezda’s defensive lapses, especially poor rotations and insufficient help defense, to narrow the gap to 65-62 before the final quarter. Despite this comeback, Zvezda’s perimeter shooting kept them within striking distance.
Jared Butler on 🔥 with 18 pts on 6/7 3FG just before the end of 3rd quarter in Crvena Zvezda-Anadolu Efes #EuroLeague game! https://t.co/Pzo9BWnMjo pic.twitter.com/5WyMcfJBJM
Crowd Energy and Team Depth Seal the Victory
The home crowd’s fervent support disrupted Anadolu Efes’s offensive rhythm in the final quarter, forcing turnovers that Zvezda capitalized on decisively. Crvena Zvezda’s wings, Jordan Nwora and Chima Moneke, took advantage of Anadolu’s weak paint defense, continuing to pile on points. As Anadolu Efes’ hope flickered through Dozier’s efforts, Jared Butler ended all doubt by sinking a critical, momentum-breaking three-pointer that secured Zvezda’s lead and ultimately the victory.
Statistical Leaders Highlight the Game’s Outcome
Jared Butler led all scorers with 21 points, hitting seven of nine attempts from three-point range, showcasing his lethal shooting that kept Anadolu Efes on their heels. Codi Miller-McIntyre contributed a well-rounded performance, tallying 12 points, six rebounds, and six assists to support Zvezda’s cause. On the Anadolu Efes side, P.J. Dozier and Isaia Cordinier scored 21 and 14 points respectively, but it was not enough to overcome the home team’s firepower. With this win, Crvena Zvezda improved to a 17-12 record heading into the FIBA international break and preparing to host Bayern Munich on March 6. Anadolu Efes fell to 9-20, tasked with regrouping quickly to face struggling Asvel the following day.
ZVEZDA WINS IT AT HOME! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/cpLdfDEIzi
Broader EuroLeague Context and Player Developments
While Jared Butler’s performance dominated headlines, the EuroLeague landscape continues to evolve swiftly. Players like Prentiss Hubb are making significant impacts in neighboring leagues, potentially setting up future EuroLeague contracts. Coaches and analysts such as Alex Mumbru and Jaka Lakovic highlight the increasing competitiveness and tactical changes in the league, with teams like Zenit aiming higher in coming seasons. Veteran perspectives reflect the intense pressure and high expectations present in Europe’s basketball competitions.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities for Both Teams
Crvena Zvezda’s victory demonstrates their capability to rise to pressure games and leverage star performers like Butler in tight situations. Maintaining this momentum post-FIBA break will be crucial as they face tougher opponents like Bayern. Anadolu Efes must address defensive inconsistencies and regain form after the loss, with key players ready to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures. The game marked a gripping chapter in the EuroLeague season, underlining how individual brilliance combined with collective effort remains essential in this fiercely contested competition.
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