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By: Sam Meyerkopf & Nick Gibson / @euro_adventures

The Top 16 is finally here and a fresh wave of competition has fallen over us.  We’ll be picking all the games for the Top 16 and will announce what we’re playing for or the winner’s reward on our podcast later this week.  For those also trying to play at home, feel free to leave your picks in the comment section.

UNICS Kazan (7-3) vs. Fenerbahce Ulker (6-4)

Sam: Fenerbahce was the only team able to win in Cantu last round, and has two other road victories.  They tend to play just as well away from Istanbul as they do when they’re there.  UNICS scored over 80 points once in the Regular Season (Fenerbahce did five times), and unless Henry Domercant goes bonkers (it’s possible) Fenerbahce takes this one rather easily. Fenerbahçe Ülker.

Nick: Talk of Fenerbahçe’s inconsistency and lack of leadership is partially warranted, but has gotten out of hand during this excruciatingly long break between games. Turkcan’s back. Turkcan’s back. Got all these [ladies] screaming that Turkcan’s back. Fenerbahçe Ülker.

Olympiacos (6-4) vs. CSKA Moscow (10-0)

Sam: Everyone knows Andrei Kirilenko is back right?  I’m not sure I’d pick any opponent to beat CSKA with AK on the floor.  CSKA Moscow. 

Nick: Acie Law and Joey Dorsey are pretty good. Milos Teodosic and Nenad Krstic are pretty gooder. CSKA Moscow.

Montepaschi Siena (8-2) vs. Bilbao Basket (5-5)

Sam: A real key game right off the bat, this game could well determine a playoff berth.  Bilbao is healthier but with Bo McCalebb back on the floor Siena not only has the better defense, but the best player in the game. Montepaschi Siena.

Nick: A long break for Bilbao has sapped them of momentum. With a healthy Bo and that same old iron will, Siena’s ready to kick the Gescrap out of Bilbao at home. Montepaschi Siena.