Anadolu Efes becomes the first finalist in the Turkish Cup

In the first semifinal match of the Men's ING Turkish Cup Final Four, Anadolu Efes defeated Pınar Karşıyaka 81-77 to advance to the final.

Starting with back-and-forth scoring, Anadolu Efes led the first quarter 23-16, fueled by fast breaks and free throws resulting from fouls.

Looking to close the gap, Pınar Karşıyaka used tough defense to take the lead with 6.5 minutes remaining in the half: (24-23). However, Anadolu Efes went into the locker room with a 36-30 lead thanks to critical 3-point baskets.

Pınar Karşıyaka started the third quarter well, taking the lead with 5 minutes left in the half through fast breaks: (49-45). Anadolu Efes responded by scoring from free throws earned through fouls. The blue-and-whites, who prevented their opponent from scoring with tough defense under the basket, finished the 3rd period ahead 57-56.

Anadolu Efes started the final period quickly, extending the lead to 9 points (67-58) at one stage. Preventing their opponent from closing the gap in the remaining time, Anadolu Efes won the match 81-77.

Arena: Karatay Sports and Congress Center

Referees: Fatih Arsalanoğlu, Alper Özgök, Musa Kazım Çetin

Anadolu Efes: Larkin 23, Beaubois 4, Bryant 8, Salih Altuntaş, Erten Gazi 10, Clyburn 10, Burak Can Yıldızlı, Pleiss 16, Ercan Osmani 9, Erkan Yılmaz 1

Pınar Karşıyaka: Jaylon Brown 5, Carey 18, McCollum 20, Furkan Haltalı 9, Hakan Sayılı 6, Thomas Akyazılı 2, Hilliard, Vitto Brown 10, Mert Celep, Kenan Sipahi 7

1st Period: 23-16

Half-time: 36-30

3rd Period: 57-56

News Source: 12punto