Match Preview
Both teams had very mixed results in their recent test matches but started the new season with some European success. They also clashed in the Basket League quarterfinals in May, where AEK Athens advanced in three games (2-1).
Aris Showing Signs of Improvement
Aris had a lot of problems in the first half against Le Mans last week in their EuroCup and season opener, trailing by 11 points very early on but stabilizing as the game went by, taking an 87-74 victory in France.
The Thessaloniki side had a lot of offensive problems in the Greek Basket League round one clash against AS Karditsas last weekend, where they were tagged as massive favorites yet suffered a 74-68 defeat, shooting just 37% from the field.
Aris had an amazing first half on Wednesday against San Pablo Burgos in the EuroCup, though, building a 23-point advantage before the break, which helped them secure a 93-80 victory. Nenad Dimitrijevic was named man of the match, landing 21 points with six assists and two rebounds.
AEK Athens Still Searching for Consistency
AEK's first official match in the new campaign was in the Greek Super Cup semifinals, where they lost to Olympiakos 93-80. Their shooting numbers were solid here, but they failed to control the glass (25-35 rebounds).
The Double-Headed Eagles claimed their first victory of the season last weekend by taking down Maroussi 91-70 in the Greek Basket League opener. Nelly Joseph was named man of the match, scoring 18 points (8/11 FG shooting) and adding six rebounds to his name.
The Athens side were tagged as huge favorites ahead of the FIBA Champions League first-round clash against Finnish champions Salon Vilpas but barely secured victory on Wednesday, winning 95-93 after a dramatic finish. Frank Barley was unstoppable with 27 points.