Bourges Basket Women survived a determined challenge from Emlak Konut Women, winning 79-74 in the EuroLeague Women. The hosts built a decisive third-quarter lead and then held their nerve in a tense fourth, using timely baskets and free throws to close out a hard-fought home victory.

Match overview

The game was tight through the opening half, with the teams going into the break level at 37-37. Bourges created separation with a 23-17 third quarter, but Emlak Konut responded in the fourth and cut the deficit to a single possession. Bourges, however, made the bigger plays in the final minutes to secure the win.

• First quarter: Bourges Basket Women 20-18 Emlak Konut Women
• Second quarter: 17-19
• Third quarter: 23-17
• Fourth quarter: 19-20
• Final score: Bourges Basket Women 79-74 Emlak Konut Women

Key moments

Bourges opened the third quarter with an 8-0 run that turned a tied game into a 45-37 advantage. Emlak Konut answered with a 7-0 burst early in the fourth to make it a one-possession game, but Bourges responded through strong interior play and composed free-throw shooting. A late defensive stop and a clutch basket in the final minute gave the hosts enough breathing room to see out the result.

Tactical story

Bourges’ inside scoring and offensive rebounding were central to the win. The hosts repeatedly attacked the paint, drew fouls and created second-chance opportunities. Emlak Konut stayed close thanks to its guard play and three-point shooting, but turnovers in key moments and an inability to secure defensive rebounds hurt the visitors. Bourges’ late-game execution, particularly from the free-throw line, proved the difference in a game that was decided by fine margins.

Standout performers

Bourges’ frontcourt set the tone with physical play around the rim, while the guards managed the game well in the closing minutes. The bench also provided valuable minutes, helping the hosts maintain energy through the middle quarters. Emlak Konut’s backcourt kept the visitors in contention with timely shot-making, but the team lacked the final offensive spark to complete the comeback.

EuroLeague Women impact

The win gives Bourges an important home result in the EuroLeague Women standings and reinforces its ability to win close games. Emlak Konut will take positives from the fightback but will rue the missed opportunities in the fourth quarter. With the final score at 79-74, this was a reminder that home advantage in Europe’s top competition often comes down to execution in the final five minutes.