EL: Joy for Zvezda in Belgrade, Heartbreak for Partizan in Istanbul

It was a night of mixed emotions for the Belgrade giants in the EuroLeague, as Crvena zvezda Meridianbet celebrated a big home victory over Anadolu Efes, while Partizan Mozzart Bet came up just short on the road against league leaders Fenerbahçe Beko.

Backed by their home crowd in Belgrade, Crvena zvezda Meridianbet returned to the winning path in style, defeating Anadolu Efes 91:81 and improving their EuroLeague record to 17-12.

Although the final score suggests a comfortable outcome, the contest was anything but easy. The two sides were locked in a tight battle for most of the evening, exchanging leads and answering each other’s scoring runs. However, when the game entered its decisive phase in the fourth quarter, Zvezda raised their defensive intensity to another level.

In the key moments, the red-and-whites practically closed all routes toward their basket. Strong rotations, disciplined help defense and crucial stops allowed them to create separation and turn a tense duel into a double-digit victory.

Offensively, Jared Butler delivered a standout performance, leading Zvezda’s charge with 21 points. His composure and shot-making proved vital whenever Efes threatened to swing the momentum. With balanced contributions across the roster and timely defensive stops, Zvezda secured an important win that keeps them firmly in the playoff race.

Meanwhile in Istanbul, Partizan Mozzart Bet produced a spirited display against EuroLeague leaders Fenerbahçe, but eventually suffered a narrow defeat in a dramatic finish.

The black-and-whites matched the hosts for most of the game and entered the final stretch with a real chance to pull off a major road upset. However, Fenerbahçe showed why they sit at the top of the standings.

In the final minute, the Turkish side simply did not miss. Baldwin and Biberović each hit crucial two-point shots, swinging the momentum in favor of the hosts. After Dylan Osetkowski cut the gap to just one point (75:74), Fenerbahçe remained perfect from the free-throw line, calmly converting every attempt to stay in front and seal the win.

Despite the loss, there was encouraging news for Partizan. Both Carlik Jones and Shake Milton returned to action after injury layoffs, providing a boost ahead of the closing stretch of the season. Partizan now stand at 9-20, but their competitive display against the league leaders will offer belief for the games ahead.

2025/26 EuroLeague, Regular Season, Round 29, Wednesday, February 25, 2026:

FENRBAHCE BEKO – Partizan Mozzart Bet 81:78 (20:20, 15:19, 22:17, 24:22)
Horton Tucker 29, Baldwin 17 | Fernando 18, Jones 17.

CRVENA ZVEZDA MERIDIANBET – Anadolu Efes 91:81 (19:23, 25:14, 21:25, 26:19)
Butler 21, Nwora 14 | Dozier 21, Cordinier 14.

Thursday, February 26, 2026:

Dubai Basketball – ASVEL (18:00)