Valencia Basket is set to face Covirán Granada on March 30, 2025, at 12:30 PM in a crucial Liga Endesa matchup at the Palacio de Deportes. This game comes just 39 hours after Valencia's grueling EuroCup semifinal against Hapoel Tel Aviv, where they suffered a heartbreaking 96-91 defeat. The loss means that Valencia must now prepare for a decisive third game in the EuroCup series, scheduled for April 2, at their home court in La Fonteta.
Despite the tight turnaround, Valencia Basket is determined to maintain their momentum in the Liga Endesa. Currently positioned third in the league standings with an impressive 18-6 record, they are looking to build on their previous successes. Earlier this season, they dominated Granada in their first encounter, winning decisively by a score of 120-94, setting a record for the most points scored in the first half of a game with 67 points.
On the other hand, Covirán Granada is in desperate need of a win. Sitting in 17th place with a 6-18 record, they are two victories away from safety in the league. Granada is coming off a five-game losing streak and will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage against a fatigued Valencia team. Their last win was on March 1 against Girona, where they secured a 78-74 victory.
Granada has made several roster changes recently to bolster their chances of survival. They have welcomed new players, including Sam Griffin, who scored 22 points in his debut against Surne Bilbao Basket, and Omar Silverio, who has been averaging 11 points and 4.5 rebounds in his first two games with the team. Amine Noua stands out as Granada's offensive leader, currently averaging 21.6 points and a valuation of 24.6 over the last five games.
In terms of player availability, Valencia's coach Pedro Martínez will see the return of Sergio De Larrea, who has recovered from a shoulder injury. However, Chris Jones will miss the game due to a left leg overload, which he sustained during the EuroCup game against Hapoel. Additionally, Semi Ojeleye's participation remains uncertain due to ongoing discomfort.
As Valencia prepares for the challenge, Xabi López-Arostegui emphasized the importance of focusing on the upcoming match against Granada. He stated, "We have been balancing both competitions all year. We are coming off a demanding week but do not want to neglect the Liga Endesa. Every game is crucial, and we expect a competitive match against a team that is also in dire need of a win. They will be strong at home, especially given their situation. We have limited time to prepare, but we are mentally focused on the task at hand."
Valencia's recent form has been impressive, with a potent offense that has seen them score over 100 points in nine games this season. Their scoring efficiency is remarkable, boasting a 38.91% success rate from three-point range, 59.11% in two-point shooting, and 79.11% from the free-throw line. They are also the top rebounding team in the league, averaging 41.21 rebounds per game.
Granada will have to contend with a Valencia team that is not only skilled but also well-prepared to challenge for the EuroCup title. The pressure is on for both teams—Valencia to secure their place in the EuroCup finals and Granada to fight for their survival in the Liga Endesa. With only ten games left in the season, every match counts, and today’s clash promises to be a thrilling encounter.
As the teams take to the court, the stakes couldn't be higher. Valencia aims to extend their winning streak and maintain pressure on La Laguna Tenerife, while Granada desperately seeks to end their losing streak and inch closer to safety in the league standings. The outcome of this match will have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the closing stages of the season.
The game is set to be broadcast live, allowing fans to witness this exciting matchup as Valencia Basket takes on Covirán Granada. Will Valencia prove their mettle despite the fatigue, or can Granada capitalize on their home advantage to secure a vital victory? Only time will tell as the action unfolds on the court.
