Valencia eliminates Panathinaikos in EuroLeague playoffs game 5

Valencia Basket defeated Panathinaikos in the deciding fifth game of the EuroLeague playoffs on May 13. After Panathinaikos secured a 2-0 lead in the series, Valencia staged a comeback by winning the subsequent games to reach the Final Four. Panathinaikos coach Ergin Ataman acknowledged the superiority of the Spanish team, noting that his players felt significant pressure and struggled with their offensive performance in the first half. Before the match, Ataman had expressed confidence in his squad and stated that they were prepared to secure the final spot in the tournament held at the T-Center. While some commentaries have criticized the team's season-long performance and coaching decisions, Ataman highlighted the opponent's defensive intensity and character. The coach had also emphasized the importance of impartial officiating ahead of the decisive match, calling for a focus on the game's strategy. Ultimately, the loss denies the Greek club a place in the Final Four, marking a conclusion to their EuroLeague campaign.