ATHENS – Kendrick Nunn wrote his name into the EuroLeague record books on Thursday night, delivering a sensational performance that propelled reigning champions Panathinaikos to a commanding 103-74 victory over Olimpia Milano.
The 29-year-old American guard was unstoppable from the opening tip, setting a new record in the first quarter by sinking seven three-pointers and scoring 21 points. Nunn’s explosive start tied the all-time scoring record for any 10-minute period, matching the feat previously achieved by Toney Douglas.
“I just felt in the zone,” Nunn said after the game. “My teammates found me in good spots, and the shots were falling.”
Nunn, who led Panathinaikos to the EuroLeague title in his debut season last May, wasted no time asserting dominance. His first triple ignited a 7-0 run, and he followed up with another from the same spot, extending the lead to 12 points. With each possession, Nunn’s confidence grew, and Olimpia Milano had no answers for his shooting spree.
By the end of the first quarter, Panathinaikos had surged ahead 38-15, marking the highest-scoring quarter in the club’s storied history. Nunn’s seven three-pointers not only shattered personal records but also energized the home crowd at the OAKA Arena.
The visitors struggled to mount a comeback, and Nunn continued his stellar play throughout the game, finishing with a career-high and EuroLeague season-high 39 points. His performance was a testament to his skill and a warning to future opponents.
Panathinaikos head coach praised Nunn’s leadership on the court. “Kendrick was phenomenal tonight,” he said. “He set the tone early, and the team fed off his energy.”
The victory solidifies Panathinaikos’ position at the top of the EuroLeague standings and highlights the team’s ambition to retain their title. For fans and analysts alike, Nunn’s record-breaking night will be remembered as one of the great individual performances in European basketball.
Reference(s):
Panathinaikos' Nunn has record seven three-pointers in first quarter
cgtn.com
