Panathinaikos qualify for finals with nervy win at Peristeri
Panathinaikos qualify for finals with nervy win at Peristeri
BASKET LEAGUE PLAYOFFS - SEMI-FINALS (GAME 3)
Reigning Greek champions Panathinaikos were given a test by Peristeri, but they emerged victorious 82-75 to qualify for the final of the 2018/2019 Basket League season.
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Panathinaikos were far from their best in Peristeri. Leading 2:0 in the series and overwhelming favourites to reach the final, the Greens could have been forgiven for taking their foot off the gas, and Peristeri had a four-point lead during the fourth quarter. Nevertheless, Panathinaikos came roaring back in the closing minutes to qualify for the final against either AEK or Promitheas.
Matt Lojeski was on fire for Panathinaikos, hitting five of eight three-pointers while registering 22 points. Nick Calathes gained another double double with 11 points and 10 assists.
Ben Bentil was once again a shining light for Peristeri with 21 points and 11 rebounds for the hosts.
THE MATCH
Initially, Panathinaikos opened up a solid 21-14 lead in the first quarter, but Peristeri refused to let the Trifylli run away with proceedings and won the second 22-19.
Peristeri took advantage of some sloppy Panathinaikos play in the third. With Panathinaikos not converting their plays and regularly losing the ball carelessly, Peristeri got back on level terms and even gained a slender one-point lead.
Steven Gray nailed a three-pointer with 35 minutes on the clock to make the score 67-63 in Peristeri’s favour.
Peristeri were closing in on a famous victory, but in the concluding stages, Panathinaikos burst into life. The superb Lojeski and Calathes scored three consecutive three-point shots to give the Athenians a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
HIGHLIGHTS: PERISTERI - PANATHINAIKOS
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