Coach Pedro Martínez's team delivered a solid performance, built on high-level defense, deep rotation, and a decisive third quarter that ultimately broke the game open. The 'taronja' squad prevented any local comeback, establishing their intensity from the start.
From the opening tip, with a starting lineup of Jean Montero, Brancou Badio, Kameron Taylor, Jaime Pradilla, and Neal Sako, Valencia Basket set the defensive tone. Suffocating defense led to an initial 0-9 lead, prompting local coach Jaume Ponsarnau to call a timeout.
Despite Bilbao Basket's attempts to close the gap, notably through Lazarevic's plays, Valencia Basket responded with points from Braxton Key, Taylor, and Cárdenas, ending the first quarter with a 16-22 score.
In the second period, Bilbao Basket found its rhythm from three-point range, but Valencia Basket held on thanks to offensive rebounds and free throws. Brancou Badio hit a crucial three-pointer to re-establish a ten-point lead. At halftime, the score was 37-47.
The third quarter proved decisive. Valencia Basket extended their lead with an offensive onslaught led by Kameron Taylor, Nate Reuvers, and Brancou Badio. Consecutive three-pointers from Reuvers and Sergio De Larrea pushed the lead to its highest point, while the visiting defense remained strong. The quarter ended 8-23, effectively sealing the game at 49-71.
In the final ten minutes, Valencia Basket maintained defensive intensity and offensive accuracy with contributions from players like Jean Montero and Yankuba Sima. Despite local efforts, the deficit was insurmountable, and the game concluded with a decisive 71-88 victory.
With this win, Valencia Basket becomes the first semifinalist in the Liga Endesa, confirming their strong form after reaching the Euroleague Final Four and keeping their dream of winning the ACB title alive.




