THESSALONIKI, Greece (Interstat) — Dinamo Sassari opened its season with a dominant 72-56 road victory over Panathlitikos on Thursday afternoon, overcoming a significant pregame projection that favored the home side.

Interstat’s ELO system had given Panathlitikos a 61.3 percent probability to win, but Dinamo Sassari controlled the game from the start with stifling defense. The visitors held Panathlitikos to just 20 made field goals on 68 attempts, a 29.4 percent shooting performance.

Kourtney Treffers led all scorers for Sassari, contributing 18 points, seven rebounds and four assists in 25 minutes of action. Didi Richards recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds to go with six assists. Temira Poindexter added 14 points and five rebounds.

Panathlitikos was led by Kelsey Ransom, who scored a game-high 24 points in 37 minutes. KeShunan James added 14 points and seven rebounds in the losing effort.

The difference came on the defensive end, where Sassari’s pressure was relentless. They held Panathlitikos to an offensive rating of 69.3, forcing 21 turnovers and blocking four shots. Despite committing 21 turnovers of their own, Sassari’s efficient shooting, including a perfect 15 for 15 from the free throw line, proved decisive.

Debora Carangelo facilitated the Sassari offense with a game-high eight assists, while Julia Boros chipped in seven points and eight rebounds.

With the win, Dinamo Sassari begins its season 1-0. Panathlitikos falls to 0-1. The two teams are scheduled to meet again in a rematch in Thessaloniki on Thursday, Sept. 25.