Valencia Basket seeks revenge against Real Madrid in the Endesa League Final
Valencia Basket prepares for a crucial match this Sunday at the Movistar Arena against Real Madrid, in the second game of the Endesa League final. After the defeat suffered on Friday, the Valencian team has the obligation to improve its performance in both offense and defense to balance the series and face Wednesday’s match at the Fonteta with greater tranquility.
In the first game of the series, Valencia Basket showed an intense defense at the beginning, but the lack of effectiveness in the attack, especially from the 6.75 line, affected their defensive performance, allowing Real Madrid to take control of the game. When Real Madrid accelerated in the last quarter, Valencia had no answers.
Part of Valencia’s offensive problems were attributed to the nerves of playing a final, something that might not be a factor in this second match. Jean Montero, the team’s main offensive figure, struggled with a low field goal percentage, while Sergio De Larrea also underperformed.
The lack of fluidity in the game affected players like Semi Ojeleye, Nate Sestina, and Josep Puerto, who did not receive comfortable balls. Chris Jones, although he kept the team in the game at times, could not lead the attack against an opponent of this magnitude. Brancou Badio, on the other hand, showed a good level.
Overcoming nerves and improving effectiveness in attack are key for Valencia. Greater offensive confidence should boost a more aggressive defense, especially in the first line.
Despite the difficulty, Valencia managed to control Walter Tavares for several minutes thanks to the work of Nate Reuvers, but their outside players had trouble stopping their rivals’ penetrations. A more solid defense in the first line could allow Valencia to score in transition, something they failed to do on Friday.
Valencia will count on the support of their fans in the stands, seeking a victory that allows them to avoid a compromised situation.
In the event that Real Madrid wins the second match, Valencia would face the challenge of winning at Fonteta on Wednesday to stay alive and, if necessary, achieve three consecutive victories to win the title.
With Ethan Happ’s absence, Valencia will have to make two technical discards. In the last games, Stefan Jovic and Amida Brimah have been the chosen players.
