Surne Bilbao Basket dreamed of a historic upset at the Roig Arena, but ultimately fell to Valencia Basket. The game was highly contested, and the Bilbao team had a chance to win, but in the final six minutes, they couldn't withstand the home team's physical play and the referees' decisions.
Jaume Ponsarnau's team played 34 superb minutes, with strong defense and good shooting. Centers Tryggvi Hlinason and Bassala Bagayoko shone with 20 points, 14 rebounds, and 36 valuation. The visitors led 62-75, but Valencia, coached by Pedro Martínez, mounted a comeback with a 14-0 run.
In the final moments, the referees' calls also played a role. Valencia increased physical contact on defense, which the referees did not penalize as harshly. In the last plays, Valencia took the lead, and although Justin Jaworski had a chance to tie with a three-pointer, the game ended 82-78.
Despite the bitter final result, Surne Bilbao Basket showed great merit in challenging a strong team like Valencia Basket. Seven turnovers in the final quarter were decisive in the defeat.
The start of the game was very positive for the Bilbao team. They played excellent defense, and Margiris Normantas scored their first eight points. The first quarter ended 18-19, with Surne Bilbao ahead.
In the second quarter, Hlinason's dominance continued, but Valencia reduced the deficit, and the score was tied at halftime, 35-35.
After the break, Valencia increased their intensity. Montero and Key were important for the home team. However, with three-pointers from Harald Frey and Melwin Pantzar, Surne Bilbao took the lead again (51-62). The final quarter began with a score of 55-62.
In the final quarter, with a triple from Frey and two free throws from Hlinason, Surne Bilbao led 55-77. But Valencia, thanks to seven points from Pradilla, reduced the deficit. Finally, the game concluded 82-78, and Surne Bilbao lost the opportunity to advance to the semifinals.




