Dreamland Gran Canaria secured a dramatic 97-94 victory over Valencia Basket on December 30, 2023, closing out the year with their ninth win of the season. The match, held at the Gran Canaria Arena, saw the insular team rise to the occasion, supported by their fervent home crowd, known as the Marea Amarilla.
Entering the game without two key players—John Shurna and Joe Thomasson—Gran Canaria started strongly with players like Mike Tobey and Caleb Homesley stepping up. The excitement was palpable as Jaime Pradilla opened the scoring for Valencia, but it quickly became clear this match would be far from straightforward.
Valencia, showing their prowess as league leaders, jumped to an impressive 10-22 lead, much to the dismay of the home supporters. It showcased their ability to dominate swiftly, led by Nate Sestina’s decisive three-pointers. The early phases of the game saw Gran Canaria struggling defensively, allowing the visitors to control the momentum. This 4-20 run by Valencia left spectators anxious as the first quarter closed with the scoreboard reading 17-24.
Yet, the Gran Canarians were not ready to fade away. With renewed vigor, Homesley and Pelos began to chip away at the deficit, showing brilliant teamwork and scoring prowess. By halftime, the home team had narrowed the gap to just two points, trailing 36-38, reflecting their resilience even under pressure.
The third quarter was defined by intensity and skill from both teams. Gran Canaria took the lead for the first time after halftime, and with thunderous support from the crowd, they capitalized on every scoring opportunity. This quarter saw the game turn from Valencia's initial stronghold to Gran Canaria beginning to assert themselves offensively, with quick exchanges and defensive adjustments.
Tobey shone brightly, supported by sharp contributions from his teammates, including the crafty Albicy. The crowd erupted as Gran Canaria managed to take the lead by just one point by the end of the third period, moving the score to 71-66.
With less than two minutes remaining, the match intensified. Valencia Basket attempted to battle back, and they rallied through Sestina, who scored 27 points, demonstrating his shooting talent with eight three-pointers—the second best record for Valencia Basket. The tense final minutes saw both sides exchanging baskets as the pressure mounted.
Gran Canaria responded strategically, landing key shots and free-throw opportunities to extend their lead, thanks to players like Kljajic who made pivotal contributions. Montero, silenced by jeers of the home crowd due to his previous comments about the team, almost became the hero for Valencia. He took the desperate final shot to tie the game with seconds on the clock, but it fell short, ensuring Gran Canaria’s hard-fought victory.
The final score of 97-94 solidified Gran Canaria's reputation as formidable contenders within the league, especially at home where they have now successfully defeated Valencia multiple times. Coach Jaka Lakovic expressed his gratitude post-match, acknowledging the unwavering support from the home fans as pivotal to their performance.
This win not only boosts Gran Canaria’s position but also enhances their chances for the upcoming Copa del Rey, especially with their tactical depth shining through even with injuries. Valencia, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly, reflecting on their defensive lapses and overall execution as they prepare for what lies ahead. The defeat marked another miss for the league leaders at the Gran Canaria Arena, highlighting the unique challenges this venue poses.
Gran Canaria's performance was characterized by teamwork, strategic play, and individual brilliance, making for not just any victory but one for the history books as they ushered out the year on a high note.
