Aris TT Bank Snaps Losing Streak with Dominant 83-64 Victory Over Neptunas Klaipeda

Home Victory Ends Five-Game Skid

Aris TT Bank emphatically ended their five-game losing streak with a commanding 83-64 victory over Neptunas Klaipeda in Round 17 of the EuroCup. Playing at the Palais de Sports in Thessaloniki, the Greek side delivered their most complete performance in weeks, dominating the third quarter to pull away from their Lithuanian opponents and secure a much-needed morale boost.

The victory marks a significant turnaround for Aris, who had been struggling through a difficult stretch that saw them lose to Bahcesehir College Istanbul, Idea Slask, Hapoel Jerusalem, BAXI Manresa, and Union Olimpija Ljubljana. The nineteen-point margin of victory represents their most convincing win since defeating Umana Reyer Venice back in December.

Third Quarter Surge Breaks Game Open

After a competitive first half that saw the teams deadlocked at 21-21 after the first quarter and Aris holding just a six-point advantage at halftime, the home team exploded in the third period. Aris outscored Neptunas 25-8 in what proved to be the decisive quarter, effectively putting the game beyond reach. The Lithuanian side managed only eight points in those crucial ten minutes, their shooting completely abandoning them when they needed it most.

The 19-point deficit heading into the fourth quarter was insurmountable for Neptunas, despite their best efforts to mount a comeback. While they managed to win the final period 22-18, it was far too little, too late, with Aris comfortably managing the clock and maintaining their substantial cushion.

Balanced Offensive Attack Powers Aris

Bryce Jones led the way for Aris with an efficient 16 points on an exceptional 8-of-10 shooting from the field, including a perfect 8-of-9 on two-point attempts. The American guard also contributed six assists and showcased his all-around game with one steal, recording an impressive efficiency rating of 21. His ability to penetrate the defense and finish at the rim was a constant problem for Neptunas throughout the contest.

Amine Noua matched Jones with 16 points of his own, displaying remarkable shooting efficiency by converting 6-of-8 from the field, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc. The French forward also grabbed five defensive rebounds and added two steals, recording an efficiency rating of 19. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down perimeter shots created additional space for his teammates to operate.

Elijah Mitrou-Long provided valuable secondary scoring with 10 points while connecting on 2-of-5 from three-point range. The Greek guard added four rebounds, three assists, and two steals, demonstrating the defensive intensity that helped Aris control the game. His ability to create opportunities for others while applying pressure on the defensive end proved crucial in maintaining Aris's momentum.

Bench Contributions Make the Difference

Danilo Andjusic came off the bench to provide a significant spark with 14 points on highly efficient shooting, converting 4-of-5 from the field, including 3-of-4 from three-point range. The Serbian guard was perfect from the free-throw line, making all three attempts, and added three assists while posting an efficiency rating of 17. His instant offense provided Aris with the firepower needed to extend their lead during critical stretches.

Arnoldas Kulboka contributed seven points and five rebounds in over 22 minutes of action, shooting 2-of-3 from beyond the arc. The Lithuanian forward's familiarity with the opposition's style of play proved beneficial as he made timely contributions on both ends of the floor.

Ronnie Harrell added seven points, four rebounds, and three steals in a solid all-around performance. His defensive pressure was particularly noticeable, as he consistently disrupted Neptunas's offensive flow and created transition opportunities for his teammates.

Neptunas Struggles to Find Offensive Rhythm

Rihards Lomazs fought valiantly for the visitors, leading all Neptunas scorers with 19 points on 6-of-10 shooting from the field. The Latvian guard connected on 3-of-5 from three-point range and was perfect from the free-throw line, making all four attempts. He added three assists, two rebounds, one steal, and one block, but his efforts were not enough to prevent the Lithuanian side from suffering their third consecutive defeat.

Zane Waterman provided secondary scoring off the bench with 12 points, though he struggled with his efficiency, shooting just 4-of-14 from the field. The American forward did grab six rebounds, including four on the offensive glass, and added two steals, but his inability to convert scoring opportunities reflected Neptunas's overall offensive struggles.

Karlis Silins delivered an efficient performance with 10 points on 4-of-5 shooting, including a perfect 4-of-4 on two-point attempts. He added four rebounds, one steal, and one block, posting an efficiency rating of 13. His brief but productive stint provided one of the few bright spots for Neptunas.

Velicka's Playmaking Not Enough

Arnas Velicka orchestrated the Neptunas offense with eight assists while grabbing nine rebounds, including three on the offensive end. However, the Lithuanian guard struggled with his shooting, converting just 2-of-10 from the field and finishing with only five points. His four turnovers also proved costly as Neptunas struggled to maintain offensive continuity during the crucial third quarter collapse.

Harrison Cleary contributed eight points and three assists off the bench, while Donatas Tarolis managed only two points on 1-of-4 shooting. Vitalijus Kozys added three points but committed five fouls and three turnovers, exemplifying Neptunas's difficulties in maintaining discipline and execution.

Defensive Intensity Keys Victory

Aris's defensive performance was perhaps even more impressive than their offensive output. The home team forced numerous turnovers, held Neptunas to just 26.7% shooting from three-point range, and completely suffocated their opponents during the decisive third quarter. The Greek side's ability to contest shots, rotate effectively, and protect the paint prevented Neptunas from establishing any offensive rhythm.

The rebounding battle also favored Aris, who controlled the glass and limited second-chance opportunities for the visitors. This defensive dominance allowed Aris to control the tempo and execute their offensive sets with confidence, knowing they had a safety net on the defensive end.

Looking Ahead

For Aris TT Bank, this comprehensive victory provides much-needed confidence after a difficult stretch of results. The balanced scoring attack, defensive intensity, and third-quarter dominance demonstrate that the Greek side is capable of competing at a high level when executing their game plan effectively. As they look to build momentum in the second half of the EuroCup season, performances like this will be essential for climbing the standings.

Neptunas Klaipeda faces growing concerns after suffering their third straight defeat and being held to just 64 points. The Lithuanian side's offensive struggles, particularly the disastrous eight-point third quarter, highlight the need for adjustments. While Rihards Lomazs continues to provide consistent scoring, Neptunas needs more balanced contributions and better execution in critical moments to reverse their fortunes in the competition.