Valencia Basket Claims Second Minicopa LF Endesa Title

Valencia Basket clinched their second Minicopa LF Endesa title after a convincing 73-57 win over Spar Gran Canaria on March 23, 2025, at the Príncipe Felipe arena in Zaragoza. This victory stands out not just for the title itself, but for the commanding way in which the team controlled the game from beginning to end.

In a match that showcased their solid form, Valencia quickly established dominance, leading the first quarter with a score of 26-15. Their performance was so commanding that they took control of the match early on, prompting a response from Spar Gran Canaria, who initially attempted to rally with a 0-5 run in the second quarter. At halftime, Valencia held a solid lead of 39-27.

The second half saw Valencia extend their lead, reaching a commanding advantage of 19 points at one point during the third quarter. Although Spar Gran Canaria fought back to narrow the gap to 54-42 before the final quarter, Valencia Basket maintained their composure and ultimately secured the trophy.

As the final whistle blew, the standout player of the match, Anastasia Lishchuk, was rightfully named the most valuable player (MVP) of the final. Her stats were impressive: 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 6 blocks, culminating in a valuation of 35. This performance not only secured her the MVP title for the match but also positioned her as a major standout throughout the tournament, where she averaged 19.9 points and 13 rebounds per game.

“Valencia Basket dominated the game from beginning to end,” remarked EUROPA PRESS, highlighting their separation from the competition. Lishchuk's contributions have been pivotal not just in this final, but throughout the entire Minicopa tournament, which she approached with a relentless drive reminiscent of her heritage as the daughter of a Valencia Basket legend.

Lishchuk’s unique talent shone through in earlier rounds as well, where she logged a remarkable 33 points and 19 rebounds in the semifinals against Ardoi from Navarra, ultimately helping Valencia to a 68-53 victory. Her consistency and skill have become crucial elements of Valencia Basket's strategy and performance, paving the way for their continued success.

This title, Valencia Basket's second Minicopa LF Endesa championship, adds to the pride of the club, which had previously claimed the title in Salamanca in 2020. The youth program at Valencia Basket, particularly since the opening of L'Alqueria in 2017, has been instrumental in cultivating future stars and establishing a winning culture. Awa Fam, another key player from the club’s successful youth generation, also reflects this winning mentality, having led her teams to victories in the Spanish Cadet Championships over the past few years.

The potential for this current squad is significant, with many players exhibiting early success in their careers, suggesting a bright future not just for Valencia Basket but for women's basketball in Spain as well.

In conclusion, the triumph in the Minicopa LF Endesa not only signifies a victory in the present but also lays the foundation for upcoming success, with Valencia Basket's current players like Lishchuk continuing to write golden pages in the club's storied history. Fans can only watch and anticipate how this team will evolve as they strive for greater achievements.