Valencia and Joventut Set Record in Endesa League Semifinal. The second Endesa League semifinal between Valencia Basket and Asisa Joventut took place in Valencia. The match ended in overtime with the rare score of 118:117. Both teams faced personnel losses.
In Valencia, the second semifinal match of the Endesa League took place between Valencia Basket and Asisa Joventut, which became one of the highest-scoring and most intense games of the season. Regular time did not determine a winner, and only in overtime did the hosts manage to snatch victory by the narrowest margin — 118:117. This outcome has heightened the intrigue of the series and cast doubt on the future chances of the visitors from Badalona.
Valencia Basket, considered the favorite to reach the final, managed to shake off the psychological pressure after the first meeting and is now close to securing a decisive advantage in the series. Not only offensive plays but also several key moments in defense played a crucial role in the hosts' success, allowing them to maintain the initiative at the end.
For the visitors, Ante Tomic was once again unable to help his team—his absence has become a serious problem for Asisa Joventut, and he will not return to the court for the rest of the season. For Valencia Basket, to the already known absences of Lopez-Aróstegui and Josep Puerto, was added the injury to Nate Reuvers, sustained in the first match. This forced the coaching staff to consider returning Yankuba Sima to the rotation.
Special attention in this series is focused on the duel between the point guards: Jean Montero for Valencia Basket and Ricky Rubio for Asisa Joventut. The pace and productivity of both teams largely depend on their play. In the first game, Rubio already demonstrated his leadership, while Montero continues to confirm his status as one of the brightest players in the playoffs.
The next game of the series will take place in Badalona, and it will be decisive for the visitors: a loss would leave them with no chance of reaching the final. The tip-off is scheduled for 20:00 local time, with the broadcast available on MARCA.com.
In the context of regional sports events, it is worth noting that Valencia and its surroundings are becoming increasingly prominent on Spain's sports map. For example, the city of La Pobla de Vallbona in the province of Valencia, where footballer Grimaldo grew up, is actively developing and attracting the attention of both families and athletes. This was discussed in detail in the feature on new trends in the region.
For reference: the Endesa League is Spain’s main basketball championship, featuring the country’s top clubs. In recent years, Valencia Basket has consistently been among the title contenders, while Asisa Joventut is traditionally considered one of the most difficult opponents for the favorites. The series is expected to keep fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
