Barcelona vs. Kosner Baskonia: History, Efficiency, and a Ticket to the Final at Stake

The second semifinal of the 2026 Copa del Rey in Valencia brings together two old rivals. Barcelona and Kosner Baskonia meet this Saturday (20:00) in a matchup that has become part of the tournament's DNA. Twelve chapters document this rivalry in the final stages, second only to the Clásico in frequency. The prize is clear: the last passport to the final.

Pascual and Galbiati, Experience vs. Momentum

Xavi Pascual moves naturally in this setting: he has reached the semifinals in eight of his nine Copa del Rey appearances. Across from him, Paolo Galbiati faces his first experience in Spain with a perfect record so far (1/1). Tradition and ambition, face to face.

Elite Efficiency

The numbers support the expectations. Barcelona leads the Liga Endesa in effective field goal percentage (58.9%), while Kosner Baskonia ranks third (56.9%). This indicator, which weighs the added value of the three-pointer, paints two particularly precise offenses capable of converting minimal advantages into decisive runs.

A Copa Classic with Memory

The historical record favors the blaugrana squad (8-3), which also has strung together five consecutive victories over the Vitoria-based team in the Copa. Baskonia's last victory came in the 2009 semifinals, precisely against a team coached by Pascual. Since then, Barcelona has continued to consolidate its dominance in this matchup.

The clash has left memorable performances: big scoring nights in finals and semifinals, crucial rebounds, and masterful playmaking. Each edition has added a new chapter to a rivalry that transcends generations.

This Season's Precedent

In the Liga Endesa matchup on November 15, 2025, Barcelona prevailed 91-83 in a game of constant back-and-forth. After an even first half, the game was decided in the third quarter. Will Clyburn delivered a decisive performance: 24 points, 23 efficiency rating, perfect from two-point range (6/6), and four three-pointers, all in less than twenty minutes on the court.

Much More Than a Semifinal

Beyond the head-to-head record and statistics, the matchup presents an attractive contrast: Barcelona's structural discipline against Baskonia's competitive dynamism. Both arrive with first-rate offensive arguments and with the sense that the margin for error will be minimal.

In Valencia, the blaugrana classic adds a new chapter. Shared history, proven efficiency, and a final within reach.