Fenerbahce shook off a poor start to defeat FC Bayern Munich 88-73 in Round 5 of the EuroLeague, ending a three-game losing streak and improving to 2-3.
The reigning EuroLeague champions looked in trouble early as Bayern capitalized on turnovers to open a 20-14 lead after the first quarter. The hosts committed nine turnovers in that stretch and appeared short on confidence following heavy defeats in recent weeks, including a 69-93 loss to newcomers Dubai Basketball.
However, Sarunas Jasikevicius’ side regrouped after the break. A decisive 17-1 run in the third quarter turned a close contest into a comfortable advantage, giving Fenerbahce their first home win since opening night. The defending champions shot 48.1% from three-point range and outrebounded Bayern 33-26, displaying much-needed discipline on both ends of the floor.
Scottie Wilbekin, still building fitness after a lengthy injury absence, was crucial in sparking the turnaround. The guard contributed 14 points in just 15 minutes, connecting on 4-of-8 from deep and showing flashes of his pre-injury form.
Mikael Jantunen led all scorers with 15 points on 5-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc, while Wade Baldwin added 13 points, three rebounds, and three assists. Baldwin’s energy set the tone defensively and earned him the game’s MVP honors.
Bayern, who fell to 2-3, struggled to maintain their early composure once Fenerbahce’s defense tightened. Carsen Edwards and Isaac Mike led the visitors with 13 points apiece, but the German side managed just 5-of-21 shooting from three-point range and committed 11 turnovers.
The win provided relief for Jasikevicius, whose contract is up at the end of the season, and for Fenerbahce’s supporters, who saw a glimpse of last year’s title-winning cohesion.
Fenerbahce next face Anadolu Efes in the Istanbul derby, while Bayern will look to regroup at home against Olympiacos.
