Thomas Walkup vs Shane Larkin is an interesting matchup we could focus on ahead of Olympiacos vs Anadolu Efes clash in the EuroLeague Final Four.
The defensive specialist of the “Reds” and the star guard of the reigning champions had a key role in their teams’ trip to the Final Four.
Walkup averaged 11.2 points, on 75% shooting and 43.5% from beyond the arc, 2.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.2 steals and a PIR of 12.6 in the series vs Monaco.
He scored in double digits in 3 of the 5 games in the series and was a game changer on both ends. Especially in Games 1 and 5, Thomas Walkup scored consecutive points and shifted the momentum for the “Reds”.
Throughout the season, the American guard has played consistently especially on defense and his role will be vital in the game vs Efes.
Walkup will need to be at his best in the semi-final, as he will need to guard the superstar duo of Vasilije Micic and Shane Larkin.
Photo: EuroLeague Basketball
Larkin is coming off a series vs Armani Milano where he was unstoppable offensively in three of the four games.
Scoring 16, 19 and 16 points in the first three matches, respectively, he gave Efes the chance to take the lead and eventually close out the series in Game 4.
If Larkin builds some momenum in the game, it will be very difficult for Olympiacos to contain him. Therefore, Thomas Walkup, who will most likely guard him, will do his best to press him as much as he can and stay away from foul trouble.
Overall, this matchup will be key for the outcome of the game, as both Olympiacos and Efes will fight tooth and nail to advance to the EuroLeague Championship Game.
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