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Panathinaikos vs Fenerbahce 81-77 victory at the final buzzer (updated)

The Greens held their nerve in the closing moments to secure thier victory

Newsroom December 16 09:17

Panathinaikos sealed a hard-fought win in a dramatic finish, showing composure from the free-throw line and defensive discipline in the closing moments of the game.

With just under a minute remaining and the score tight, Kendrick Nunn once again proved decisive. Fouled repeatedly in the final stretch, the Panathinaikos guard calmly converted his free throws to keep his team in front. His perfect shooting from the line pushed the score to 80–75, forcing the opposition to chase the game.

The turning point came with 9 seconds left, when the referees reviewed a key phase on replay and upgraded the call to an unsportsmanlike foul. Tucker capitalized, knocking down both free throws to extend the lead and effectively seal the outcome.

Despite one last attempt from Biberović, who missed with 2.7 seconds remaining, Panathinaikos stayed focused, controlled the rebound, and ran down the clock. The visitors had no time to mount a final response, as the “greens” executed perfectly under pressure.

The closing sequence highlighted Panathinaikos’ mental strength, with accurate free-throw shooting, successful coaching challenges by Ergin Ataman, and smart game management proving decisive in the final seconds.

It was a victory built on composure, experience, and clutch performances — a statement win that underlined Panathinaikos’ ability to deliver when it matters most.

Panathinaikos mounted a strong comeback in the closing minutes of their EuroLeague clash, turning the game into a nail-biting battle down the stretch.

The fourth quarter began with renewed intensity, as Juancho Hernangómez sparked the rally with a crucial three-pointer, followed by key baskets and free throws from Mitoglou and Kendrick Nunn. Panathinaikos gradually erased the deficit, tying the game at 60–60 midway through the final period and putting Fenerbahce under sustained pressure.

Kostas Sloukas played a pivotal role, knocking down an important three-pointer to give the Greens the lead, while Osman’s steal and Mitoglou’s offensive rebounds kept Panathinaikos alive in critical possessions. With just over four minutes remaining, the momentum had clearly shifted.

In the final two minutes, Nunn pushed the tempo in transition, and despite a late three from Fenerbahce’s Biberovic, Panathinaikos stayed composed. Tactical timeouts, challenges from coach Ergin Ataman, and clutch free-throw shooting proved decisive in the closing seconds.

With 16 seconds left on the clock, Nunn calmly converted both free throws to make it 78–75, sealing a dramatic comeback and underlining Panathinaikos’ resilience and composure in crunch time.

It was a hard-fought finish that showcased Panathinaikos’ defensive grit, mental toughness, and ability to deliver when it mattered most.

The match has lived up to expectations, delivering high intensity, physical defense, and constant momentum shifts. Fenerbahce managed to edge ahead early in the second half, capitalizing on key three-pointers and trips to the free-throw line, while Panathinaikos continues to battle through defensive discipline and timely scoring.

Never let them know your next move 👀

@5talen a master of unpredictability 🪄 #RivalrySeries I #EveryGameMatters pic.twitter.com/2IIFqIdTjE

— EuroLeague (@EuroLeague) December 16, 2025

Strong First Half for Panathinaikos

Panathinaikos entered halftime with a 41–37 lead after an impressive first-half performance. The Greens controlled the tempo and dictated play largely through their defensive efficiency.

Kendrick Nunn led the way offensively with 15 points, while Osman added 11, carrying much of the scoring load. Despite relying heavily on their two main scorers, Panathinaikos stood out defensively, forcing six steals and limiting Fenerbahce’s transition game.

The Greek side also showed composure at the free-throw line (9/10), won the rebounding battle (+3), and disrupted Fenerbahce’s rhythm. However, their 11 turnovers were a concern heading into the second half.

Halftime@fbbasketbol – #paobcaktor 37-41#WeTheGreens #Club1908 pic.twitter.com/own3n2lA3S

— Panathinaikos BC (@Paobcgr) December 16, 2025

Momentum Shift After the Break

Fenerbahce responded strongly in the third quarter, finding answers from Baldwin, Melli, Biberovic, and Tucker. A series of three-pointers and efficient scoring runs allowed the hosts to overturn the deficit and regain control of the game.

Hustle and heart from Bonzie #RivalrySeries I #EveryGameMatters pic.twitter.com/T1RaGg5AM7

— EuroLeague (@EuroLeague) December 16, 2025

Despite the pressure, Panathinaikos remains within striking distance, with Grant hitting a crucial three and Mitoglou contributing inside. Defensive intensity remains high, and every possession is contested.

All to Play For

As the game progresses, execution in the final stretches, ball security, and bench contributions are expected to play a decisive role. With both teams fighting for EuroLeague positioning, the outcome remains wide open in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive clashes of the round.

Live updates continue as the game unfolds.

That's cheat code range from @nunnbetter_ DAMN! #MotorolaMagicMoment @Moto I #RivalrySeries I @FBBasketbol pic.twitter.com/MMO3QqI5Xi

— EuroLeague (@EuroLeague) December 16, 2025

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