Despite the personal histories, the two rarely guarded each other directly. Early in the game, Micic sped past Larkin to assist Dan Oturu – another former Efes player – on a three-point play. For much of the contest, Micic was defended by Larkin’s new backcourt partner Nick Weiler-Babb, the reigning EuroLeague Defensive Player of the Year.
Still, there were several moments when their paths crossed. Midway through the second quarter, Larkin deflected a cross-court pass from Micic out of bounds. In the third quarter, Micic capitalized on a lapse by Larkin, who lost track of Elijah Bryant in the corner; Micic drove and kicked for a key three-pointer to put Hapoel ahead 52–50. Later, inside the final three minutes, Larkin picked off a pass from Micic in the paint, keeping Efes within striking distance.
Larkin actually faced three of his former teammates on the night. In addition to Micic and Oturu, Hapoel also signed Elijah Bryant this offseason. Bryant played four seasons with Efes (2021–2025), winning the EuroLeague title in 2022 alongside Larkin and Micic.