Anadolu Efes Cruise Past Zalgiris Kaunas 85-70 in EuroLeague Road Test
Anadolu Efes Istanbul made a strong EuroLeague statement on October 17, 2026, defeating Zalgiris Kaunas 85-70 inside a hostile Zalgirio Arena. The Turkish powerhouse used a balanced offensive attack and a decisive second-half run to pull away from the Lithuanian giants.
Match Overview
Efes controlled the game on both ends, never allowing Zalgiris to settle into a comfortable rhythm. The visitors moved the ball efficiently, punished defensive mistakes, and converted key possessions during the moments when Zalgiris tried to rally. The 15-point margin reflects Efes' maturity and depth in a difficult EuroLeague road environment.
- Final score: Zalgiris Kaunas 70, Anadolu Efes Istanbul 85
- League: EuroLeague
- Date: October 17, 2026
- Result: Anadolu Efes road win
How the Game Unfolded
Efes set the tone early with a 22-16 first quarter, leaning on sharp perimeter shooting and aggressive closeouts. Zalgiris responded with a better second period, scoring 19 points, but Efes still won the quarter 21-19 and carried a 43-35 lead into halftime. The third quarter proved critical: Efes outscored Zalgiris 20-18, then put the game away with a 22-17 fourth quarter that silenced the home crowd.
- Q1: Zalgiris 16, Efes 22
- Q2: Zalgiris 19, Efes 21
- Q3: Zalgiris 18, Efes 20
- Q4: Zalgiris 17, Efes 22
Key Moments
The game's turning point arrived early in the fourth quarter. Zalgiris had trimmed the deficit to nine and the arena was growing louder, but Efes responded with a 9-2 run sparked by a corner three and a fast-break layup. That sequence restored a comfortable double-digit lead and forced Zalgiris to chase the game. Efes' defense then tightened, contesting every shot and controlling the defensive glass to deny second-chance points.
Standout Players
Shane Larkin led Efes with 22 points, mixing deep three-pointers with crafty finishes around the rim. He also dictated pace and found open teammates when Zalgiris collapsed on his drives. Zalgiris' best offensive effort came from Rokas Jokubaitis, who scored 16 points and tried to keep the home side within reach, but he lacked enough support against Efes' depth.
EuroLeague Table Impact
The road victory boosts Anadolu Efes' position in the EuroLeague standings and reinforces their playoff ambitions. For Zalgiris Kaunas, the home defeat is a missed opportunity to gain ground in a competitive league where every result matters. The head-to-head result could become important later in the season if both teams are fighting for the same playoff seed.
Zalgiris Kaunas vs Anadolu Efes Istanbul Live Score, Stats & Results
Match Overview
The Zalgiris Kaunas vs Anadolu Efes Istanbul fixture is part of the EuroLeague during the 2026-2027 season. Follow live scores, EuroLeague fixtures, match statistics, EuroLeague standings and EuroLeague match results for Zalgiris Kaunas vs Anadolu Efes Istanbul on Tiger Scores 365.
Head-to-Head Record
Previous Zalgiris Kaunas vs Anadolu Efes Istanbul meetings provide useful insight into past results, points scored and overall head-to-head performance between the two teams.
Team Form
Recent results and performances help illustrate the current form of both teams ahead of Zalgiris Kaunas vs Anadolu Efes Istanbul. Compare recent wins, losses and scoring records before tip-off.
EuroLeague Standings
League standings show the current position, points and performance of Zalgiris Kaunas, Anadolu Efes Istanbul and other teams competing in the EuroLeague.
Match Statistics
Follow points, rebounds, assists, field goals and other key statistics for Zalgiris Kaunas vs Anadolu Efes Istanbul. Tiger Scores 365 provides live and post-match data throughout the fixture.

