Strasbourg’s Dominant Display Over Pinar Karsiyaka in Group E Clash

In a crucial Group E matchup between the two undefeated teams, SIG Strasbourg demonstrated their class, controlling the game against Pinar Karsiyaka almost entirely at Rhénus Sport. Their assertive play left the Turkish team trailing for a staggering 39 minutes in Strasbourg's 80-65 win.

Strasbourg set the tone early

Strasbourg wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Phil Booth’s finesse with a turnaround jumper was a key part of a rapid 12-point lead. Remarkably, their defense restricted Pinar Karsiyaka to a solitary point in the opening seven minutes, effectively neutralizing Vernon Carey Jr’s usually formidable presence in the paint.

While Karsiyaka managed to narrow the gap to eight points at the first quarter's end, thanks to Errick McCollum’s buzzer-beater, their resurgence was short-lived. Darrun Hillard's three-pointer briefly brought hope, cutting the deficit to just two points.

Strasbourg's Decisive Response

Yet, Strasbourg, led by Booth, swiftly reasserted control. A strong finish to the second quarter, highlighted by another Booth basket, saw them head into halftime with a 10-point advantage. The third quarter only solidified their dominance, extending the lead to 15 points. Strasbourg's defensive prowess was on full display, forcing 19 turnovers and capitalizing with 22 points off these errors. They also contained Pinar’s scoring in the paint to a modest 20 points, a season-low for the Turkish side in the Basketball Champions League.

Both Booth and Hooker contributed significantly with 16 points each, ensuring Strasbourg's loss count is still 0 in Group E. On the other side, despite Vernon Carey Jr and Kelan Martin scoring 15 points each, it was a challenging outing for Pinar Karsiyaka, who now aim to set the record straight when SIG Strasbourg visit them in Izmir on November 29.

SIG Strasbourg - Pinar Karsiyaka 80-65 Game Highlights

Relive this Group E matchup with the SIG Strasbourg - Pinar Karsiyaka game highlights