SIG Strasbourg loses to Galatasaray

The SIG Strasbourg team lost 83-77 to Galatasaray in the Basketball Champions League, despite 21 points from Maxence Lemoine. The French team was missing key players William Pfister and Ben Gregg, who were absent for three months and not present in the game.

Galatasaray leads early

Galatasaray took an early lead, scoring 21-16 in the first quarter and extending it to 42-33 at halftime, including a 10-0 run in the second quarter. The Turkish team maintained control throughout the game.

Lemoine's performance highlights SIG's effort

Maxence Lemoine led SIG's effort with 21 points, shooting 4 out of 5 from two-point range, 1 out of 4 from three-point range, and 10 out of 12 from the free-throw line. He also recorded five assists in 26 minutes. Neftali Difuidi added 16 points, all from three-pointers, before being ejected in the third quarter.

SIG makes a late push

Despite being down 62-56 heading into the fourth quarter, SIG made a late push, cutting the deficit to 62-60 and then to 71-70 on two free throws by Jaylen Hands. However, Galatasaray responded with a three-pointer and a fast break to extend their lead.

Galatasaray dominates the boards

Galatasaray outrebounded SIG 43-27, including 14 offensive rebounds. Strasbourg made 25 of their 29 free throws, but the rebounding disparity proved decisive.

SIG coach criticizes team's performance

SIG coach Janis Gailitis expressed disappointment, noting a lack of maturity and mental errors that should not be present in a high-level competition. Lemoine acknowledged the team's challenges, stating they were only seven players and missing two interior players, but added that this was not an excuse.

Pfister's injury and new signing

William Pfister, who suffered a leg injury during SIG’s win against Roanne, will be unavailable for about three months. The team has signed Bruno Cingala-Mata as a replacement. Cingala-Mata, 33, was present in Istanbul but did not play in the game.

SIG still searching for a new player

SIG is still looking for a replacement for Jake Forrester, who left in late September. Sam Alajiki was the only available interior player for the game in Istanbul.