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Turkish EuroCup derby: Besiktas GAIN takes first win in semis

Besiktas GAIN’s Berk Ugurlu (#6) goes up against Bahçesehir Koleji’s Hunter Jelaun Hale (#77) during the first leg of the BKT EuroCup semifinals at BJK GAIN Sports Hall in Istanbul, Türkiye, March 31, 2026. (AA Photo)
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Besiktas GAIN’s Berk Ugurlu (#6) goes up against Bahçesehir Koleji’s Hunter Jelaun Hale (#77) during the first leg of the BKT EuroCup semifinals at BJK GAIN Sports Hall in Istanbul, Türkiye, March 31, 2026. (AA Photo)
April 01, 2026 11:20 AM GMT+03:00

In the first leg of the Basketball BKT Europe Cup (EuroCup) semifinals, Turkish rivals Besiktas GAIN and Bahcesehir Koleji faced off in a highly anticipated Turkish derby in Istanbul. The match, played at Besiktas’ home court, ended with a 91‑72 victory for the black-and-white team. With this win, Besiktas opened the semifinal series with a lead in the best-of-three matchup.

Bahcesehir Koleji started strongly, scoring effectively both inside the paint and from outside, building an early advantage. Besiktas struggled defensively at the start but gradually gained control in the second quarter.

With key free throws and consistent scoring from players like Conor Morgan, Mathews, and Dotson, the home team took over the lead. By halftime, the match remained close, but Besiktas showed signs of momentum that would define the second half.

Besiktas GAIN player Brynton Lemar (11) battled Bahcesehir Koleji player Malachi Emmanuel Flynn at BJK GAIN Sports Hall in Istanbul, Türkiye, March 31, 2026. (AA Photo)
Besiktas GAIN player Brynton Lemar (11) battled Bahcesehir Koleji player Malachi Emmanuel Flynn at BJK GAIN Sports Hall in Istanbul, Türkiye, March 31, 2026. (AA Photo)

Strong second-half push seals victory

The second half was dominated by Besiktas, led by Anthony Brown and Zizic. A strong scoring run and aggressive defense allowed the team to build a comfortable lead, which they maintained through the final quarter to secure the 91‑72 win. Conor Morgan had to leave the game late due to an injury, but the team’s collective effort ensured the victory.

The semifinal series is a best-of-three, with the team that wins two games advancing to the EuroCup final.

The second leg will be held on April 3 at Sinan Erdem Sports Hall, hosted by Bahcesehir Koleji. The decisive third game is scheduled for April 8 at Besiktas GAIN’s home court.

April 01, 2026 11:25 AM GMT+03:00
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