The contest unfolded with Lucentum demonstrating more organization and a steadier pace than Lleida, keeping the game close throughout. Urtasun, Vucetic and Carrera contributed in a way that suggested an all-around team effort, keeping options open until the very last moments, even as periodic lapses surfaced. Rakocevic delivered a remarkable performance, while Blaylock’s quiet contribution drew attention, as his usual impact seemed a notch off today. The match remained tightly contested for most of the night, with Lleida holding a slight edge for longer stretches. In the end, the decisive factor proved its weight through a peak performance rating of 25 PIR, tipping the balance in favor of Lleida. Lucentum, despite lacking second-chance opportunities on the offensive glass, generally played a strong game and posted positive indicators for HLA overall.
HLA Alicante opened with high energy, pressing from the opening bell as Lleida found its footing behind a hot outside shooting display. By the six-minute mark, Monclova called a timeout as the hosts faced a 18-11 deficit after a stretch of defensive mismatches. A triple from Chapela and another from Matulionis halted Lleida’s momentum, preventing any early separation. Vucevic and Carrera were particularly troublesome for Lucentinos, who had entered the game with a reputation for outside shooting. The first quarter closed with a 6-13 run by HLA Alicante, leaving the scoreboard tied at 26-24 after ten minutes of action, signaling a strong start for the home team in a game defined by balance and intensity.
Lucentum began the second period with renewed vigor. A three from rookie Rakocevic helped turn the tide, lifting Alicante to a brief lead after a 28-29 exchange. The defense held firmer than the offense at times, creating a battle of attrition that kept both sides within arm’s reach. Blaylock endured a rough stretch, his game erratic yet not ruinous, as the arena buzzed with light and shadow from the competitive mood. Neither squad could maintain distance as the score stayed tight well into the period. Lucentum managed to take a small advantage into the timeout with a 38-39 edge, though Lleida showed resilience, trading blows and pressuring Lucentum with disciplined defense and careful execution on the other end.
When play resumed, Lucentum looked to their veteran guard play from Urtasun and the threat posed by Vucetic as major factors. Carrera’s third-quarter impact offered optimism for HLA, with back-to-back triples briefly widening the gap to establish a theoretical margin. Yet Lleida weathered the storm, responding with a series of defensive stops and efficient scoring to reclaim momentum. The scoreline read 55-50 as the clock approached the final stretch of the third period, and HLA faced a defining moment. A sequence of back-to-back baskets from Carrera reinforced the visitors’ value, but the home team remained within reach as the frame closed with Lucentum clinging to a 58-52 disadvantage and Berg and Rakocevic reasserting control on the boards and in transition. The tense flow suggested a gripping final act was on the horizon.
In the fourth quarter, the tide shifted again as Urtasun connected for a timely three to push Lleida ahead, 69-62, with six minutes remaining. The game’s physicality produced a few stoppages that disrupted Lucentum’s rhythm, prompting Monclova to call a timeout to regroup. Carrera emerged as a decisive factor in the closing minutes, applying pressure and converting critical baskets. After two technicals on Monclova and Rakocevic, Lleida held a 72-62 cushion but Lucentum surged back, mounting a late rally with four consecutive points to draw within a single possession and forcing a time-out for the home team. The arena intensified as Vucetic delivered a crucial basket, easing Lleida’s nerves and sealing the outcome while Blaylock’s miscue in the final seconds sealed Lucentum’s fate. The final sequence showcased strategic ball movement and composure from Lleida, ensuring the victory despite the late flurry from the visitors.