Latest:
jun 14 2026Valencia Basket will compete in the Liga Endesa final for the second consecutive year. The orange squad closed out their semifinal against Asisa Joventut decisively after winning at the Olímpic de Badalona 75-87, sealing the 3-0 series sweep and setting up a championship showdown with Barcelona, with home-court advantage on their side.
Pedro Martínez's team once again demonstrated their competitive solidity in a series they controlled from start to finish. After defending their home court in the first two games, Valencia Basket also proved capable of winning on the road, in a demanding setting and against a Penya side seeking to extend the series with their fans' support.
The standout performer was Jean Montero. The Dominican point guard delivered an outstanding performance, posting 24 points and a 39 efficiency rating, and was instrumental in Valencia Basket breaking open the game in the second half. His ability to score, create advantages, and manage high-pressure moments proved too much for Joventut.
The game started with balance and high pace. Valencia Basket attempted to open a gap from three-point range, with a very high volume of three-pointers already in the first quarter, though without enough accuracy to pull away decisively. Joventut accepted the trade-off and stayed within the contest, with Ricky Rubio and Jabari Parker assuming offensive responsibility.
At halftime, the scoreboard reflected the game's balance, with a slight orange advantage (39-41). However, Valencia Basket gradually began imposing their roster depth, their rebounding presence, and greater offensive variety. In that context, Montero emerged as the player who definitively shifted the game's momentum.
The third quarter was the turning point. Valencia found offensive continuity, toughened up the game, and pushed the lead to twelve points (52-64), forcing Joventut to play from behind. Dani Miret attempted to slow Montero's inspiration by assigning Guillem Vives to him, but the Dominican continued finding answers.
The Penya didn't surrender. Rubio assumed responsibility in the highest-pressure moments and the Olímpic tried to push their team toward a late comeback. But Valencia Basket had more solutions. Three-pointers from Jaime Pradilla and Kameron Taylor, combined with Matt Costello's work in the decisive stretch, ultimately extinguished the black-and-green squad's chances.
Joventut said goodbye to a great season with recognition from their fans, while Valencia Basket celebrated another ticket to the final. Pedro Martínez's squad will now pursue the second league title in club history, following the one won in 2017, and will look to avenge last year's final loss to Real Madrid.
The Liga Endesa final is set: Valencia Basket versus Barcelona, with the first game on the orange squad's home court.
