Esenler Erokspor vs Anadolu Efes — Preview & Prediction (Jan. 17, 2026)
Esenler Erokspor: defense first
Esenler Erokspor have made a strong impression since joining the Turkish Super League, and their results show it. They haven’t been distracted by European fixtures this season, which has given coach Ufuk Sarica plenty of time to prepare each week. That preparation has paid off: the team is on a five-game winning streak and sits around the middle of the table with nine wins and six losses.
Their identity is clear — defense. They’ve kept opponents under 80 points in several recent games and rank among the top defensive teams in the league. If they keep defending at this level, a play-in spot looks likely. Offensively there are still question marks: rebounding is a weakness and their three-point accuracy is roughly in the low 30s percentage-wise. Having a steady domestic scorer like Egehan Arna would help them stretch defenses and ease pressure in close games.
Anadolu Efes: struggling to find rhythm
This has been a frustrating season for Anadolu Efes. Results have been poor across competitions, and their EuroLeague form has been particularly alarming with multiple straight defeats. The team started the domestic campaign well but have dropped off, and consistency — especially in their offense — has been an issue.
Missing key contributors has hurt their flow; turnovers have been more frequent than usual and the backcourt has lacked its usual spark. Jordan Loyd has been a bright spot scoring-wise, but uneven three-point shooting and disjointed offensive sets have left the side underperforming. On top of form problems, there are notable absences: Shane Larkin, Burak Yildizli and Georgios Papagiannis are out, and Vincent Poirier is also unavailable, which will affect rotation options and size.
Head-to-head history between these two is minimal — Efes won the only recent match-up 90-76 — but current form gives the home side confidence and the visitors plenty to fix.
Prediction
Both teams lean on defense right now: Esenler Erokspor as their trademark and Anadolu Efes as a way back to stability. With Efes missing some big pieces and struggling to run a clean offense, this game looks like it could be low-scoring and physical. Expect a grind where possessions are limited and turnovers matter.
Tip-off: Saturday, 17.01.2026, 16:00 CET
Prediction: Under 165.5 points
Suggested stake: 2 units (odds noted at time of writing: 1.88)
Notes: Lineups and availability can change before tip-off, so check the final team news closer to game time. This preview focuses on form, defensive strengths, and the impact of absences when making the call.
