Darussafaka Istanbul wins 2018 EuroCup

Darussafaka Istanbul is the 2018 EuroCup champion after sweeping the finals series 2-0 against Lokomotiv Kuban Krasnodar 67-59. The win is monumental for several reasons. First, it marks a first ever international title for Daruassafaka Istanbul and puts the club close to elite level after a solid EuroLeague run last season.

The victory is also significant for Turkey and Istanbul as the nation is now a true Basketball powerhouse at club level. For the last three years there has been a Turkish club lifting one of Europe’s two major titles. Galatasaray Istanbul won the EuroCup in 2016, followed by an historic EuroLeague win for Fenerbahce Istanbul in 2017, and now Darussafaka this season. Before that, no Turkish club has won either of these competitions.

As for defeated Lokomotiv, the Russian club will be left wondering what could have been. The Krasnodar outfit completely raced through the 2018 EuroCup season, going undefeated over 18 games right up until the finals. However, it fell apart when it mattered and two defeats on the spin was all it took. It is worth noting that Darussafaka Istanbul lost more games this EuroCup season than Lokomotiv.

Much of the damage was done in the all-important first leg on Tuesday. Darussafaka managed to take down Lokomotiv in Russia and would always have a chance in Friday. In this game, the hosts made the early running with a 21-17 frame before extending through halftime to lead 39-33. Lokomotiv needed a miracle but the away team could just not get going and a 16-12 third act allowed Darussafaka to lead 55-45 after thirty minutes. Double-digits ahead, the hosts simply controlled the fourth quarter and claimed the title.

Scottie Wilbekin’s MVP performance ended with 28 points for the win, while Will Cummings scored 10 points.

A low scoring Lokomtiv display ended with Joe Ragland scoring 18 points.