Svetislav Pesic praises Bayern’s defensive effort in big EuroLeague victory over Fenerbahce
EuroLeague Round 35 - Bayern Munich's head coach expressed satisfaction with his team's game plan execution as they defeated the reigning European champions 76 points, marking a significant turnaround after five defeats in their last six games before facing Virtus Bologna next.
Svetislav Pesic praises Bayern’s defensive effort in big EuroLeague victory over Fenerbahce Photo Credit: FC Bayern Basketball
Bayern Munich delivered when it mattered most, stunning reigning European champions Fenerbahce on their home court in Munich during Round 35 of the EuroLeague. The victory comes as a massive relief for Svetislav Pesic’s squad, who had endured a difficult stretch with five defeats in their last six games entering this crucial matchup.
Despite being complete outsiders against the European champions, Bayern controlled the tempo throughout the contest. Pesic acknowledged the challenge while highlighting his team’s composed performance: « This wasn’t the best game of the season for us, but we had the advantage all the time, and that’s not easy against an organized team with an aggressive defense. »
Defensive masterclass against elite opposition
The Serbian coach emphasized how his team’s defensive discipline proved decisive against Fenerbahce’s star-studded roster. Bayern successfully limited the Turkish powerhouse to just 76 points, a remarkable achievement considering the offensive firepower at their disposal.
« I’m happy because we didn’t get lost in the game plan. First of all, we conceded a minimum number of easy, transitional points in defense. That was our priority and basic job, » Pesic explained. The defensive strategy particularly focused on containing Fenerbahce’s key guards Wade Baldwin and Talen Horton-Tucker, with Bayern executing their assignments to perfection.
Pesic noted Fenerbahce’s initial struggles before they adjusted their approach: « Maybe in the first quarter they didn’t play the way Fenerbahce usually plays. However, when they saw that we were in a good rhythm, they started to play defense. »
Building momentum for crucial stretch run
This victory carries significant importance beyond the EuroLeague standings for Bayern Munich. With Pesic recently announcing this as his final season, the veteran coach sees this performance as a foundation for upcoming challenges, particularly in domestic competition.
« I think we played a good match and deserved to win. Let’s say that this was a game that can help us in the next games, especially in the Bundesliga, » concluded Pesic, highlighting the confidence boost this result provides.
YEEEEEES! W in our last @euroleague home game of the season! #FCBB #WeBallTogether #BAYFBB | Photo: Pahnke pic.twitter.com/i5i3JbYYBu
— FC Bayern Basketball (@FCBBasketball) April 1, 2026
Bayern (15-20) will look to build on this momentum when they travel to Italy to face Virtus Bologna in their next EuroLeague fixture. For a team that had been struggling recently, this statement victory against the defending champions could prove pivotal in their season’s final stretch.
Sylvain Sultat follows the NBA on a daily basis, covering individual performances, team dynamics, and the league's greatest stories. On Be-Basketball, he breaks down the latest American basketball news with passion and consistency, always on the lookout for the trends shaping the world of basketball.
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