The 2025-26 BKT EuroCup season started with a bang, as two players delivered such impressive performances that they couldn’t be separated for the top weekly honor. Michalis Lountzis and Bryce Jones were named co-MVPs for Round 1 after both achieved an outstanding Performance Index Rating (PIR) of 33, leading their respective teams to thrilling victories.
Their all-around contributions were crucial in securing wins for their teams. Jones was a force on offense and on the boards, while Lountzis made a huge impact on both ends of the court, including crucial defensive plays. Their shared award highlights the exciting and competitive start to this year’s tournament.
🏆 Bryce Jones Powers Aris to Victory
Bryce Jones put on a spectacular show for Aris in their 85-81 road win against Umana Reyer Venice. The 30-year-old guard was instrumental in his team’s success, filling up the stat sheet with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. His efficient scoring and playmaking made him a constant threat and guided his team to a tough victory to open the season.
🇬🇷 Lountzis Shines for Panionios in Overtime Thriller
Meanwhile, Michalis Lountzis delivered a heroic performance for Panionios in a nail-biting 89-86 overtime win against Niners Chemnitz. The 27-year-old was everywhere, contributing 20 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and an impressive 4 steals. His defensive effort was just as important as his scoring, helping his team secure a hard-fought victory in front of their home crowd.
⭐ Other Standout Performers
While Jones and Lountzis took the top honors, other players also had excellent games in Round 1. Malachi Flynn of Bahcesehir College nearly matched them with a PIR of 32, recording 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals. Close behind were Mark Smith of ratiopharm Ulm and Dusan Miletic of Cluj, who both earned a PIR of 27 for their strong all-around efforts.
📊 Round 1 by the Numbers
Several players stood out as statistical leaders across the league in the opening round.
- Top Scorers: Bryce Jones and Corey Davis of Chemnitz tied for the most points with 26 each.
- Top Rebounders: Four players grabbed a round-high 11 rebounds: Thomas Kennedy, Yordan Minchev, Zacharie Perrin, and Austin Wiley.
- Top Playmaker: Arnas Velicka of Neptunas was the only player to reach double-digit assists, dishing out 10.
- Top Defenders: Four players, including Lountzis, Flynn, Velicka, and Ty Brewer, recorded 4 steals, while Justin Smith led the round with 3 blocks.
