Match Report: AEK B.C. 102–99 Aris B.C. – Greek Basket League

In one of the most electrifying contests of the Greek Basket League season, AEK B.C. edged out Aris B.C. with a nail‑biting 102‑99 victory on May 26, 2026. The packed home crowd at the OAKA Indoor Hall witnessed an offensive masterclass from both sides, as the game swung back and forth until the final seconds.

Match Overview

AEK came into the fixture seeking to solidify their playoff positioning, while Aris aimed to climb away from the relegation zone. From the opening tip, the tempo was frenetic. AEK’s backcourt trio of Isaiah Whitehead, Nikos Rogkavopoulos, and veteran guard Dimitris Katsivelis found their rhythm early, combining for 17 points in the first quarter. Aris countered with sharp shooting from their American import DeShawn Stephens and the crafty penetration of Vassilis Mouratos.

Key Moments

• First half shootout: Both teams shot above 55% from the field in the opening two quarters. AEK led 54‑51 at halftime, with Rogkavopoulos scoring 14 points.
• Third quarter surge: Aris turned the tables with a 28‑20 run, fueled by three triples from guard James Birsen. The visitors held a 79‑74 advantage heading into the fourth.
• AEK’s clutch response: In the final period, AEK tightened defensively, forcing four turnovers. Center Marios Chatzidakis dominated the paint, scoring eight points and grabbing five rebounds in the quarter.
• Decisive play: With the score tied at 99 and 12 seconds remaining, Whitehead drove the lane and drew a foul, converting both free throws. On Aris’s final possession, a contested three‑pointer by Stephens rimmed out, sealing the 102‑99 win.

Star Performers

• Isaiah Whitehead (AEK): 27 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds – the former NBA guard orchestrated the offense and delivered under pressure.
• Marios Chatzidakis (AEK): 18 points, 7 rebounds, 3 blocks – a dominant presence in the paint.
• Vassilis Mouratos (Aris): 22 points, 8 assists – kept Aris in contention with his penetration and passing.

Impact on the Standings

The victory improved AEK’s record to 18‑10, keeping them firmly in the top four of the Greek Basket League. Aris, now 11‑17, remain in the lower half but showed enough fight to suggest they can battle for survival in the remaining games.

This thriller will be remembered as one of the season’s best, illustrating the depth and drama of Greek basketball at its finest.