HLA Alicante Clinches a Tough Victory to Jump into the Playoff Zone
The Lucentum squad claimed its sixth win of the season in a battle that stretched just after the break. The visiting Melilla team faced a faster, more focused Lucentum, and the advantage grew as the game progressed. Early shooting struggles gave way to sharper defense and standout performances, especially from Gatell with 13 rebounds, McDonnell who tallied 15 points and 7 rebounds, and Rakocevic who delivered important plays in crucial moments. A 16-year-old prospect also shined in his first-team debut, posting 9 points, 5 rebounds, and a 14 efficiency rating in valuable action.
It took nearly four minutes for HLA Alicante to get on the scoreboard, with Blaylock converting a free throw after a rough start. The match had a rocky start from downtown, with Lucentum missing several attempts and Melilla leaning on a traditional inside game led by Bamba Fall. Rafa Monclova’s squad responded with strong defensive pressure, building a 16-9 edge that forced Melilla to call their first timeout. HLA finished the opening quarter strong, closing it at 20-13.
Melilla opened the second period with renewed energy, while Lucentum continued to rely on the triple line. The visitors briefly seized the lead at 24-20, but a timeout helped Lucentum regroup. The team struggled with outside shooting early on, going 0-for-10 from three to start the quarter. Gatell supplied the necessary lift, grabbing 8 rebounds in the first half and delivering key baskets to widen the gap. The scoreboard showed a closer game than Lucentum felt on the floor, as Melilla fought back to trim the deficit to 35-30 at halftime. Lucentum carried a quiet confidence into the locker room, knowing the defense held, even if the percentages on offense did not reflect it.
HLA Alicante did not start the third quarter strongly as Melilla opened 0-5, and Fall continued to damage the paint. Yet Lucentum steadily found its rhythm, powered by Gatell’s aggression and a growing impact from Rakocevic and McDonnell. The visitors did not go away, but Lucentum took control late in the period, finishing the third on a positive run to lead 59-44.
The final quarter unfolded with balance and clear intent. Traoré began to connect more frequently, contributing to stable play on the track. Melilla’s effort waned as Lucentum extended the margin and reached a 20-point cushion, 69-49, with strong late defense and efficient scoring from the home side. Alicante maintained defensive intensity, pressing without letting the pace slip, and sealed an important win that steadies their position ahead of a road game in Valladolid on Saturday.
In a game where the first half required patience, the Lucentum squad demonstrated improved concentration on defense and timely offense when it mattered most. Gatell dominated the boards and created energy for teammates, McDonnell provided scoring and rebounding support, and Rakocevic delivered in key moments, underscoring the depth that makes this team a formidable playoff contender. The performance offered promising signs for the club as they prepare for the next challenge on the road.
The win marks a clear step forward for the Alicante club, reinforcing its status within the playoff zone and signaling continued progress as the season advances. Fans witnessed a team that tightened its defense after the break, converted crucial stops into baskets, and benefited from the emergence of young talent ready to contribute at a high level.