Bakken Bears Hold Off Absheron BK 91-88 in FIBA Europe Cup Thriller

Bakken Bears survived a determined Absheron BK comeback to secure a 91-88 FIBA Europe Cup victory on October 22, 2026. The Danish side led for long stretches, but a gritty fourth-quarter push from the visitors turned the contest into a possession-by-possession battle in the final minutes.

Bakken’s early control came from efficient half-court execution and timely three-point shooting. Absheron BK stayed within reach by attacking the basket and capitalizing on free throws, setting up a tense finish that kept the home crowd on edge until the final buzzer.

Match overview

The first half was closely contested, with Bakken Bears holding a narrow 47-44 lead at the break. Neither team managed to build a double-digit advantage, and the lead changed hands several times as both sides traded runs. Bakken’s spacing created open looks, while Absheron’s physicality on the interior kept them in the game.

The third quarter saw Absheron briefly take control, using a 23-point period to trim the deficit and put pressure on the hosts. Bakken responded in the fourth with better shot selection and stronger rebounding, but the visitors refused to go away. The game was still undecided in the final minute, when Bakken made the key plays on both ends.

Key moments

Absheron’s third-quarter surge gave them momentum heading into the final period, but Bakken’s experience showed in the closing minutes. A crucial offensive rebound and putback restored a two-possession lead, and a pair of free throws extended the cushion with under a minute remaining.

• Bakken’s late-game offensive rebounding created extra possessions at a critical stage.
• Absheron hit big shots to keep the pressure on but could not complete the comeback.
• Free-throw shooting proved decisive in a game separated by just three points.
• Both teams traded leads in the fourth quarter before Bakken pulled away late.

Tactical story

Bakken Bears relied on ball movement and perimeter shooting, often using dribble handoffs to create driving lanes. Their guards did a good job of manipulating the defense and finding open shooters when Absheron collapsed into the paint. Defensively, Bakken focused on limiting easy transition baskets and forced Absheron into contested mid-range shots.

Absheron BK’s best moments came when they played through the post and attacked the offensive glass. Their physical style kept the game close, and their ability to draw fouls slowed Bakken’s rhythm. In the end, however, Bakken’s composure in the final two minutes made the difference.

Standout performers

Bakken’s backcourt delivered important shot-making and decision-making down the stretch. The frontcourt also contributed on the boards, particularly in the fourth quarter when every rebound mattered. Absheron received a strong all-around effort from their guards, who combined scoring with playmaking to keep the visitors within striking distance.

What it means for the FIBA Europe Cup standings

The three-point win is a valuable result for Bakken Bears, who will be relieved to bank a home victory in such a tight group-phase contest. For Absheron BK, the performance confirms they can compete deep into games on the road, even if the final score did not go their way. With margins this small, the result could have a real impact on the group table and potential tiebreakers.