Anadolu Efes’s Resurgent Offense: A Turning Point for EuroLeague Contenders?
Anadolu Efes Istanbul secured a crucial 92-82 victory over Zalgiris Kaunas on February 6, 2026, marking their second consecutive double-digit win after a challenging nine-game losing streak. This turnaround, fueled by a significant offensive boost, raises questions about potential shifts in EuroLeague dynamics and the importance of consistent scoring.
From Struggles to Success: The Offensive Shift
Prior to this week, Anadolu Efes faced the prospect of setting a new club record for their longest losing streak. However, over the past two games, they’ve amassed 199 points and 50 assists, demonstrating a dramatic improvement in offensive efficiency. Against Zalgiris, Efes connected on 16 three-pointers from 32 attempts and dished out 24 assists – a substantial increase from their season average of 16.8 assists.
The game against Zalgiris was particularly notable for its late-game execution. Efes closed out the contest with a 13-0 run, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. Playmaker Nick Weiler-Babb contributed 13 points, highlighting the team’s balanced scoring attack.
The Power of Team Play and Coaching
Anadolu Efes head coach Pablo Laso emphasized the importance of teamwork as a key factor in their recent success. “If you want to improve as a team, you have to be able to believe in your teammates,” Laso stated, underscoring the value of ball movement and finding the open man. This shift in focus appears to be paying dividends, with Efes achieving double-digit wins against playoff contenders.
Interestingly, all three of Laso’s wins as Efes head coach have been by double-digit margins, with the team consistently scoring at least 87 points in those games. This suggests a clear pattern: when Efes’s offense clicks, they are a formidable opponent.
Looking Ahead: Trends in EuroLeague Offense
Anadolu Efes’s resurgence highlights a growing trend in EuroLeague basketball: the increasing importance of offensive firepower. While defense remains crucial, teams capable of consistently scoring from multiple positions and sharing the ball effectively are gaining a competitive edge.
The emphasis on assists – Efes nearly matched their weekly average in a single game – suggests that teams are prioritizing ball movement and creating open looks for teammates. This contrasts with earlier eras where isolation plays and individual scoring were more prevalent.
the success of teams like Efes demonstrates the value of coaching that fosters trust and encourages players to make the extra pass. A team-first mentality, combined with skilled offensive players, can unlock a team’s full potential.
The Role of Three-Point Shooting
Efes’s 16 three-pointers against Zalgiris underscore the continued importance of perimeter shooting in modern basketball. Teams that can consistently knock down shots from beyond the arc create spacing for driving lanes and put immense pressure on opposing defenses.
However, simply taking a lot of three-pointers isn’t enough. Efes’s success stems from their ability to find open shooters and execute efficient offensive sets. The 32 three-point attempts demonstrate a willingness to shoot, but the 50% conversion rate shows a level of skill and execution.
FAQ
Q: What caused Anadolu Efes’s losing streak?
A: The source content does not specify the cause of the losing streak, only that it lasted nine games.
Q: How many assists did Anadolu Efes average before their recent improvement?
A: Anadolu Efes averaged 16.8 assists before their recent improvement.
Q: How many wins does Anadolu Efes have in the EuroLeague this season?
A: Anadolu Efes has 8 wins in the EuroLeague as of February 6, 2026.
Q: What was the final score of the game between Anadolu Efes and Zalgiris?
A: The final score was Anadolu Efes 92, Zalgiris 82.
Did you know? Anadolu Efes’s recent offensive surge has resulted in them scoring at least 87 points in each of their three wins under coach Pablo Laso.
Pro Tip: Focus on ball movement and creating open looks for shooters. A team-oriented offense is often more effective than relying on individual brilliance.
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