AEK Secures Narrow Victory Over Kolossos in Stoiximan GBL Opener

In a gripping encounter, AEK managed to hold on and clinch an 87-85 win against Kolossos, despite a late scare. The victory marked a positive start for AEK in the Stoiximan GBL season. The game’s climax saw Goodwin miss a crucial opportunity to push the match into overtime.

Match Overview: Kolossos vs AEK

Unlike their previous Super Cup clash where Rhodes’ team had the upper hand, AEK bounced back strongly in their league opener. The visitors demonstrated resilience and composure to snatch a hard-fought win on Kolossos’ home court in a thrilling finish.

Key contributors for AEK included Kuzminskas, who scored 16 points, and Bartley, who added 18 points. On the opposing side, Goudelock led Kolossos with 17 points.

The game was marred by Silva’s disqualification after an illegal headbutt on Galvanini during the fourth quarter. Additionally, Goudelock suffered a leg injury with just 90 seconds remaining. AEK enjoyed strong support from their fans, reminiscent of their backing during the Super Cup match against Promitheas.

Game Progression and Key Moments

AEK faced early challenges as Goudelock opened the scoring with a three-pointer, putting Kolossos ahead 7-1. Gray responded with a driving basket at the 3-minute mark, narrowing the gap to 9-4. Shortly after, Gray’s basket gave AEK their first lead at 11-9. The lead seesawed with Chrysikopoulos leveling at 12-11, but Kuzminskas’ post move and subsequent three-pointer helped AEK close the first quarter ahead 22-18.

In the second quarter, Katsivelis scored twice inside to bring the score to 29-26. Gray’s third foul posed a tactical challenge for coach Sakota. Chrysikopoulos tied the game at 35-35 with a fast-break layup. Three-pointers from Charalampopoulos and Flionis extended AEK’s lead to 43-37, but Kolovos kept Kolossos within striking distance at 43-42 by the 19th minute.

The third quarter saw Petropoulos give Kolossos a 52-47 advantage early on. Bartley’s back-to-back three-pointers cut the deficit to 54-53. Kuzminskas continued to be a reliable offensive option, pushing AEK ahead 63-54. Lekavicius’ three-pointer late in the quarter made it 68-60 in favor of AEK.

Early in the final quarter, Katsivelis sustained a cut above his eyebrow, but Lekavicius hit another crucial three-pointer to extend the lead to 73-62. Kolossos mounted a comeback, with Goudelock scoring five consecutive points to bring the score to 78-77. Silva’s ejection for a headbutt on Galvanini with under four minutes left intensified the tension.

Kolossos surged from a 12-point deficit to lead 84-80 with Galvanini’s basket at 38 minutes. Flionis responded with four straight points to tie the game at 84-84. Goudelock’s injury limited Kolossos’ options in the closing moments. Gray’s two free throws put AEK ahead 86-84. Charalampopoulos’ defensive effort on Taylor helped AEK regain possession, leading to Bartley’s free throws with 5.5 seconds remaining. Bartley made one of two, setting the score at 87-84. Goodwin’s three free throws in the final half-second resulted in just one successful attempt, sealing AEK’s victory.

Quarter Scores

• 1st Quarter: 18-22
• 2nd Quarter: 44-45
• 3rd Quarter: 60-68
• 4th Quarter: 85-87

Why AEK Emerged Triumphant

AEK’s ability to withstand Kolossos’ late surge and execute under pressure during critical possessions was decisive. The missed free throws by Goodwin in the dying seconds prevented Kolossos from forcing overtime.

Standout Performers

• Kuzminskas: 16 points, pivotal offensive plays
• Flionis: 13 points, including clutch baskets
• Bartley: 18 points, consistent scoring threat

Notable Contributions

Lekavicius and Gray provided valuable support with 8 and 11 points respectively, contributing both offensively and defensively.

Areas for Improvement

Kolovos struggled offensively, managing only 2 points on 1-for-4 shooting, highlighting a need for better shot selection and efficiency.

Injury and Discipline Concerns

Goudelock’s 17 points were overshadowed by his late injury, while Silva’s headbutt and subsequent disqualification negatively impacted Kolossos’ chances.

Final Thoughts

AEK’s response following their Super Cup defeat to Promitheas was commendable, showcasing mental toughness and strategic execution. Meanwhile, Kolossos demonstrated admirable fighting spirit, nearly overturning a significant deficit in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

However, Silva’s unsportsmanlike conduct was a disappointing moment in an otherwise fiercely competitive game.

Detailed Player Statistics

Kolossos Player Stats

AEK Player Stats