Match Report: AEK Larnaca 68–64 Keravnos Strovolos – Cypriot Basketball Division A

AEK Larnaca secured a hard‑fought 68‑64 home victory over Keravnos Strovolos on May 26, 2026, in a key clash of the Cypriot Basketball Division A. The match was a defensive grind, with both teams struggling to find consistent offensive rhythm but displaying immense grit and tactical discipline.

Match Overview

AEK Larnaca entered the contest aiming to close the gap on league leaders APOEL, while Keravnos sought to strengthen their hold on third place. The first half was a low‑scoring affair—AEK led 32‑28 at the break, thanks largely to the inside presence of forward Michalis Kyriakides and the perimeter defense of guard Andreas Sizopoulos.

Key Moments

• Third quarter stalemate: Neither team could create separation after halftime. Keravnos’s American big man Chris Jones provided energy off the bench, but AEK’s zone defense limited him to six points in the period.
• Fourth quarter drama: With five minutes left, Keravnos’s guard Pantelis Minotas hit a three to tie the game at 56. AEK responded with a 7‑0 run, capped by a driving layup from point guard Roberto Mantzaris.
• Free throws seal it: In the final minute, AEK’s Sizopoulos and Mantzaris calmly converted four free throws to keep Keravnos at arm’s length. A late three by Minotas was too little, too late.

Standout Players

• Michalis Kyriakides (AEK): 14 points, 10 rebounds – a double‑double that provided stability in the paint.
• Pantelis Minotas (Keravnos): 18 points, 5 assists – the team’s leading scorer and a constant threat from deep (3/6 three‑pointers).
• Andreas Sizopoulos (AEK): 11 points, 4 steals – his defensive intensity disrupted Keravnos’s flow.

Season Implications

The win moved AEK Larnaca to 16‑9, keeping them within two games of APOEL. Keravnos fell to 14‑11, now tied with Apollon Limassol for third, making every remaining game critical as the playoffs approach.

This hard‑nosed victory demonstrated AEK Larnaca’s ability to win when shots aren’t falling—a hallmark of championship contenders.