Recap
AEK enter their European opener with a significantly depleted rotation. Fizell, Brown and Williams are confirmed unavailable, while Dimitrios Katsivelis is also sidelined with a metatarsal injury. As a result, AEK are missing three big men, along with an experienced guard capable of covering multiple positions and helping organize the offence.
Salon Vilpas have already demonstrated their competitiveness by successfully navigating the BCL qualifying rounds, defeating Levice, Bakken Bears and Oradea on their way to the group stage. They also continued their strong momentum in domestic competition, winning their latest league game 97-79, with Leland Walker producing an outstanding performance of 27 points and 9 assists.
There is no doubt that AEK are the clear favorites, particularly with home-court advantage, but a 18.5-point handicap represents a substantial margin given their current personnel situation.