By George Georgakopoulos

William Coleman is likely to single-handedly lead Enosi Kavalas to safety in the top flight of Greek basketball – after producing another stunning display as the Macedonian side saw off Apollon Patras on Saturday – while developing into one of the local league’s biggest attractions.

Coleman helped Kavala win 85-67 at home to climb out of the drop zone after a long time. He did so by scoring 35 points in 38 minutes, along with collecting nine rebounds, which made him the week’s Most Valuable Player in the league. He also stood out for some spectacular slam dunks in that game.

Olympiakos retained its two-point lead at the top through a hard-fought 91-81 win over struggling KAO Dramas on the road on Monday. It is followed by Panathinaikos, who thrashed Ikaros 97-72, and Panionios, who edged out Kolossos 70-65 on Rhodes.

Aris steered clear of relegation trouble for good by beating bottom side Panelefsiniakos 68-55, while Ilisiakos remains mired in the battle after going down 95-68 at AGO Rethymnou. PAOK produced a convincing 63-55 win at Peristeri.

Meanwhile league organizer ESAKE announced on Monday the signing of a sponsorship agreement with Cyprus Airways, that is now becoming the league’s official air carrier. Turkish Airlines has signed a major sponsorship contract with the Euroleague.