One of the highlights of the opening round of the 2006 EuroCup was the contest between two of Europe's perenially top sides, Fenerbahce and PAOK Thessaloniki.

The game also saw an intriguing match-up in rising Greek star Kostas Vassiliadis and Fener veteran Damir Mrsic. On this occasion, Vassiliadis was overshadowed by a brilliant performance Mrsic, whose 35 points led Fenerbahce to a 101-91 win, and earns him EuroCup player of the week honours.

Mrsic's contribution was all the more impressive for the fact that it came on his 35th birthday. While most scorers (and Mrsic is one of Europe's best) show signs of slowing down into their thirties, the 188 cm Bosnia & Herzegovina international seems to be just getting better.

Mrsic shot a blistering 8/12 from three-point range in Fener's win and was 7/7 from the free throw line, encouraging signs for a Fenerbahce side that are looking to reach the Final Four for the second consecutive season.

Fenerbahce fell short of the final in 2005, losing to BC Kyiv in the semi-finals. However, with Mrsic in such devestating form and the addition of one of Europe's toughest players in Kaspars Kambala, the Turkish side will be looking to go at least one better in 2006.