DEFEAT IN FRANCE
Barça visited Asvel's court last Friday in a match corresponding to Round 23 of the European championship. The blaugrana team arrived at the game after stringing together 4 consecutive victories in the EuroLeague, a streak they couldn't extend on French soil. Asvel was superior to Barça in another game without minutes for Willy Hernangómez, a situation that is becoming common in demanding matches.
The French team started the game by dominating the pace, which led to the first advantages on the scoreboard for the locals. Barça trailed throughout the match, and in fact, only won the last quarter by just 1 point (24-25). Neither Parker (18 points) nor Metu (16 points) were enough to overcome an Asvel that showed great solidity throughout the 40 minutes.
The locals had a new exhibition from the young Theo Maldeon. The French prodigy finished with 18 points, 9 assists, and a performance index rating of 29, dominating the blaugrana guards throughout the match. In the end, a 100-94 score left Barça seventh in the standings, with a record of 13 wins and 10 losses in the EuroLeague.
VICTORY IN MURCIA AFTER OVERTIME
After the defeat in France, Barça had to quickly change gears and focus on a new commitment in the ACB League. The blaugrana had just defeated Bilbao Basket and secured their ticket to the Copa del Rey, which will be held next February. Facing them was UCAM Murcia, which last year was the great revelation of the Liga Endesa.
The Murcians were ACB runners-up last season, although this year they haven't been able to enter the positions that grant access to the Cup. Nevertheless, with the local desire to be in the Playoff for the title, Barça had to sweat bullets to secure the victory. Peñarroya's team couldn't count on Justin Anderson, who was a last-minute scratch due to a strain in his right leg.
With the American's absence, players like Joel Parra and Metu stepped up. Additionally, Peñarroya had a leading version of Kevin Punter, who, joined by Brizuela and the direction of Satoransky, brought Barça closer to victory. The blaugrana team went into halftime with a +9 (30-39), but in the third quarter, they relented again.
The last quarter had it all, and the game was heading for a coin-toss finish. When it seemed Barça had it in hand, Radebaugh hit a buzzer-beater three-pointer that sent the game into overtime. In the extra time, a new demonstration of cold blood for a Barça that, this time, had luck on their side.
Even so, the same Radebaugh had another open three-pointer to force a second overtime, but the ball was repelled by the rim. In the end, Barça managed to seal the triumph (90-95), which leaves them sixth in the ACB, with 10 wins and 8 losses. Peñarroya's team will seek another victory in domestic competition to continue climbing the standings next Sunday against Manresa, a direct rival.