AEK Larnaca 76–75 Keravnos Strovolos | Cypriot Basketball Division A

In a thriller that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer, AEK Larnaca edged out Keravnos Strovolos 76–75 on May 17, 2026, at the Kition Athletic Center. The one-point victory was a crucial result in the closing stages of the Cypriot Basketball Division A season, tightening the race for playoff seeding and delivering a statement win for the home side.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, both teams displayed intense defensive pressure, leading to a low‑scoring first quarter that ended 18–16 in favor of Keravnos. AEK Larnaca found their rhythm midway through the second period, using a 10‑2 run to take a 38–34 halftime lead. The visitors responded after the break, with their outside shooting clicking to regain a slim advantage heading into the fourth quarter.

The final period was a see‑saw battle. Keravnos stretched the lead to seven points with under five minutes remaining, but AEK Larnaca mounted a fierce comeback. A clutch three‑pointer by guard Dimitris Katsivelis with 90 seconds left tied the game at 73. After a defensive stop, AEK’s forward Panagiotis Markou drew a foul and calmly sank two free throws to make it 75–73. Keravnos had a chance to force overtime, but their final possession ended with a contested jumper that rimmed out, giving Larnaca the 76–75 win.

Standout Performances

• Dimitris Katsivelis (AEK Larnaca): Finished with a game‑high 22 points, including 4‑of‑7 from three‑point range, and dished 5 assists. His leadership in the crunch‑time rally was decisive.
• Panagiotis Markou (AEK Larnaca): Added 16 points and 9 rebounds, showing grit on the glass and composure at the free‑throw line.
• Keravnos’ center, Michalis Savva: Dominated the paint with 18 points and 12 rebounds, but his team could not hold the late lead.

Season & Standings Impact

The win improves AEK Larnaca’s record to 14‑9, keeping them in the top four of the Cypriot Basketball Division A standings. Keravnos Strovolos, now 13‑10, drop into a tie for fifth place, making their path to a direct playoff berth more challenging. With only four regular‑season games remaining, every possession matters in a league where home‑court advantage is often the difference.

The rivalry between these two clubs has produced several tight contests over the years, and this 76–75 nail‑biter will be remembered as one of the most dramatic of the season. AEK Larnaca’s ability to execute under pressure could prove vital as they aim for a deep playoff run.