In a thrilling showdown on March 27, 2025, FC Bayern Munich took a significant step towards securing their place in the EuroLeague playoffs by defeating Partizan Belgrade 89-74 at the SAP Garden. The match showcased the resilience of the Bavarian squad, who overcame a challenging first half to dominate the final quarter and clinch their 19th victory of the season.
The game started with both teams exchanging baskets, but it was Partizan, supported by a fervent crowd of around 4,000 fans, who held a narrow lead at halftime, 44-42. However, Bayern's Carsen Edwards was determined to change the course of the game. The American guard led his team with an impressive 25 points, proving instrumental in their comeback.
"It feels great. The hard work is paying off. We have two more games and want to go straight to the playoffs," said Bayern's Andreas Obst, reflecting on the team's ambitions following the victory. His teammate, Nick Weiler-Babb, played a crucial role in the fourth quarter, sinking a pivotal three-pointer that helped extend Bayern's lead to nine points at 79-70.
Bayern's head coach, Gordon Herbert, praised his team's effort, particularly in the last quarter where they outscored Partizan 24-11. This performance not only secured the win but also solidified Bayern's position in the playoff race, temporarily placing them in fifth place in the standings. The top six teams will qualify directly for the quarterfinals, while teams ranked seventh to tenth will enter the play-ins.
Despite the loss, Partizan's Isaac Bonga, a former Bayern player and World Champion, contributed eight points to the game. However, the Serbian side could not maintain their momentum as Bayern's defense tightened, preventing any significant runs from Partizan.
As the final quarter unfolded, Bayern displayed their championship mentality. With key contributions from Andreas Obst and Vladimir Lucic, who each scored 11 points, and Danko Brankovic, who added 10, the team demonstrated their depth and ability to perform under pressure. The victory against Partizan not only boosts their confidence but also keeps them firmly in contention for a top-six finish, which would grant them a more favorable path in the playoffs.
Looking ahead, Bayern still faces tough challenges, with upcoming games against Maccabi Tel Aviv and Fenerbahce Istanbul. These matches will be crucial for solidifying their playoff aspirations. The team's focus now shifts to maintaining their winning momentum and securing a direct playoff berth.
In the lead-up to the game, the atmosphere in Munich was electric, with around 1,000 Serbian fans marching through the city, igniting excitement and showcasing the passionate spirit of basketball. The fans, some of whom were masked, lit pyrotechnics and celebrated their team's presence in the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere around the SAP Garden.
The police were on hand to manage the situation, warning of potential traffic disruptions as the fans made their way to the venue. This display of support highlighted the importance of the match not only for Bayern but also for Partizan, whose fans traveled to cheer on their team in a crucial EuroLeague clash.
As the EuroLeague season progresses, the stakes are high for both teams. Bayern's recent form, particularly their thrilling win against Barcelona earlier in the week, where they triumphed 102-101, has set the tone for their playoff ambitions. With their eyes set on the ultimate prize, the team is determined to capitalize on their current momentum.
In conclusion, FC Bayern Munich's victory over Partizan Belgrade marks a significant milestone in their quest for EuroLeague success. With their playoff fate now in their hands, the team will look to build on this momentum and secure their place among Europe's elite basketball clubs. Fans can expect an exciting finish to the regular season as Bayern aims for a strong playoff run.
