VITORIA. Barcelona claimed a crucial victory over Kosner Baskonia 92-95 in the Liga Endesa, a direct battle for fourth place decided by Toko Shengelia's dominance in the final minutes. The Georgian power forward, who posted 26 efficiency rating points, emerged down the stretch to halt the home team's comeback and secure a vital win for Barcelona in the race for playoff positioning.
The game started with Barcelona setting the tone. The visitors imposed pace and three-point accuracy from the opening tip, punishing Kosner Baskonia's turnovers and offensive stagnation. That dominance translated into a commanding 3-19 run in the first five minutes, a lead that forced Paolo Galbiati to make substitutions to shift momentum.
The introduction of Tim Luwawu-Cabarrot and Kobi Simmons revitalized the Vitoria squad. With more energy on offense and better ball movement, the home team began chipping away. A Rodions Kurucs basket at the buzzer closed the first quarter at 20-26 following a 14-5 run that brought Baskonia back into the game.
In the second quarter, Kosner Baskonia continued to build through defense and found interior impact with Jesse Edwards, who created problems on both ends. Xavi Pascual responded by inserting Youssoupha Fall to balance the physical battle, though Barcelona lost rhythm with its second unit.
Just as the Basque team was tightening the screws, Kevin Punter emerged to keep the visitors afloat. However, Mamadi Diakité's shot-blocking prowess—five blocks—allowed Baskonia to tie at 43. Barcelona responded before halftime and went into the locker room ahead 45-47.
The third quarter elevated the intensity. Toko Shengelia and Rodions Kurucs engaged in a constant battle, with each possession demanding maximum focus. Kosner Baskonia found answers through free throws and team play, while Barcelona survived on individual talent.
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The moment of greatest local momentum came with a three-pointer-plus-one from Kobi Simmons, a play that flipped the scoreboard and allowed Baskonia to enter the fourth quarter ahead (69-68). Shortly after, five straight points from Eugene Omoruyi made it 76-72 and brought the Vitoria team within striking distance of a significant victory.
But then Barcelona's experience took over. Three consecutive three-pointers returned control to the blaugrana, and the game entered Toko Shengelia territory. The Georgian repeatedly punished defenders in the low post, breaking matchups and building the decisive advantage for the visitors.
With a lead approaching ten points, Barcelona appeared to have the finish under control, though Kosner Baskonia refused to quit. A three-pointer from Mamadi Diakité brought the drama back, and a turnover on an inbound pass by Juani Marcos gave the home team one last chance. However, Trent Forrest couldn't force overtime, and the 92-95 victory traveled to Barcelona.
This win allows Barcelona to take the edge in the race for fourth place in the Liga Endesa, while Kosner Baskonia faces pressure to respond in the final regular season games.
Barcelona emerges strengthened after winning on one of the league's most demanding courts, while Baskonia keeps its playoff positioning hopes alive.