

Anadolu Efes Istanbul Take 87-77 Road Victory at Petkim Spor
Anadolu Efes Istanbul secured an 87-77 road win over Petkim Spor in the Basketbol Super Ligi on November 2, 2026, using a strong second half to pull away from a determined host. Efes trailed early but took control after the break, combining efficient perimeter shooting with a defense that forced Petkim into tough shot selection down the stretch.
The victory keeps Anadolu Efes in the upper reaches of the Turkish league standings and underlines their ability to win away from home in high-pressure environments. Petkim Spor, meanwhile, showed plenty of fight and stayed competitive for three quarters, but a scoring lull in the third period proved too difficult to overcome.
Match Overview
Petkim Spor started brightly, feeding off home energy and attacking the basket with purpose. The hosts led 21-18 after the first quarter and matched Efes for much of the second, heading into halftime with a narrow 40-42 deficit. Petkim’s guards found success in pick-and-roll situations, while their big men battled on the boards to keep the game close.
The third quarter was where Efes imposed their quality. Istanbul’s defense tightened, closing driving lanes and contesting shooters, while the offense found rhythm from beyond the arc. A 25-17 period gave Efes a 67-57 lead entering the fourth, and they managed the final ten minutes with the composure expected of a title contender.
- Quarter scoring: Petkim 21-18, 19-24, 17-25, 20-20 Efes
- Halftime: Petkim Spor 40-42 Anadolu Efes Istanbul
- Key run: Efes’ 25-17 third quarter
Key Moments
With the game tied early in the third quarter, Efes produced the decisive stretch of the match. A three-pointer from the wing sparked a 9-2 run, and after a Petkim timeout, Efes added another quick basket in transition to stretch the lead. Petkim briefly responded through second-chance points, but Efes’ ball movement consistently created open looks.
In the fourth quarter, Petkim trimmed the margin to seven and had possession with a chance to make it a two-possession game. Efes answered with a crucial defensive stop and a calm mid-range jumper, then converted free throws on the next two possessions to protect the advantage. Petkim never got closer than eight in the final three minutes.
Tactical Story
Efes’ experience showed in their half-court execution. The Istanbul side used screens effectively to create mismatches, and their guards did a good job of drawing help defenders before finding open shooters. Defensively, Efes adjusted after halftime, applying more pressure on the ball and forcing Petkim into contested jumpers.
Petkim’s best moments came when they played with pace and attacked the rim before Efes’ defense could set. However, the hosts struggled to sustain that intensity against Efes’ deeper rotation. Rebounding also tilted toward the visitors in the second half, limiting Petkim’s second-chance opportunities.
Standout Performers
Efes’ backcourt controlled the tempo and delivered important baskets in the third quarter. Their perimeter shooting stretched Petkim’s defense and opened space inside. Petkim’s forwards competed well on the glass and kept the hosts within range, but the team needed more consistent outside shooting to counter Efes’ runs.
What the Result Means
For Anadolu Efes Istanbul, the win is another important step in the Basketbol Super Ligi campaign. Road victories against motivated opponents are essential for teams with championship ambitions, and Efes’ second-half performance showed the kind of defensive focus and poise that matters later in the season.
Petkim Spor remain a dangerous team at home, but this result highlights the gap between competing for long stretches and closing out games against elite opposition. The hosts will take encouragement from their first-half display while looking to improve their third-quarter execution in upcoming fixtures.