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The curtain rises Friday on the 2024–25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time Europe's premier club basketball tournament stages its final act outside the continent. Fenerbahce Beko, who swept Paris Basketball 3-0 in the playoffs after finishing second in the regular season, faces Panathinaikos AKTOR at 6 p.m. Turkish time in a high-tempo semifinal.
Hosted at the iconic Etihad Arena, the showdown features four basketball giants: Fenerbahce Beko, Panathinaikos AKTOR, Olympiacos, and Monaco. The matchup rekindles memories of last year’s Final Four clash, which the Greek side won.
Led by head coach Sarunas Jasikevicius—newly crowned EuroLeague Coach of the Year—Fenerbahce seeks to avenge that loss. “We must think simply,” Jasikevicius said. “It’s a 40-minute game. Last year in Berlin, Panathinaikos were better in key moments.”
Reflecting on his coaching journey, the Lithuanian tactician said: “As a player, you only think about yourself. As a coach, you're responsible for much more.”
Fenerbahce star Nigel Hayes-Davis added, “A turning point for us was Melli's clutch shot against Yalovaspor. Now we want to create more moments like that in Abu Dhabi.”
Panathinaikos head coach Ergin Ataman, now the most decorated coach in Final Four history, is aiming to lead the Greek giants to their eighth EuroLeague title.
“This is our redemption story,” Ataman said. “From the bottom last year to the top contenders now. We’ll find out if my players have what it takes again.”
Turkish international and former Fenerbahce youth product Omer Faruk Yurtseven added: “To show respect, you have to give your best. That’s the code we follow.”
In an exclusive chat with Eurohoops, Ataman shared insights on Panathinaikos’ rollercoaster campaign. Early struggles were overcome, but the squad suffered key injuries, including the loss of star center Mathias Lessort.
Smart recruitment, including defensive specialist Wenyen Gabriel, helped recalibrate the team’s rhythm. Ataman also praised Kendrick Nunn as “the EuroLeague’s most dangerous scorer” and highlighted Mitoglou’s improved role at center.
The Turkish coach identified Cedi Osman as the X-factor in their grueling playoff win over Anadolu Efes, describing him as “the difference maker” in clutch moments.
Panathinaikos beat Fenerbahce twice in the regular season, but Ataman warned: “This is a single-elimination game. Saras knows us. I know them. Anything can happen.”
Fenerbahce, making their seventh Final Four appearance in 10 years, aim to replicate their 2017 Istanbul triumph.
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