Baskonia Advances After Epic Semifinal Clash

Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz secured a hard-fought 70-67 victory over FC Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semifinals, earning a spot in the final for the first time in 17 years. The game was a closely contested affair, with neither team able to establish a significant lead.

The win marks a significant turnaround for Baskonia, who suffered a painful defeat against Barcelona in a EuroLeague match back in December.

Diakite’s Redemption and Game-Winning Block

The decisive moment came in the final seconds, as Mamadi Diakite delivered a crucial block on Tornike Shengelia, preserving Baskonia’s narrow lead. This block was particularly meaningful for Diakite, who had been the principal señalado after a previous loss to Barcelona, where he committed costly errors.

As noted in noticiasdealava.eus, Diakite’s performance allowed him to redimirse against the team that previously challenged his confidence.

Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot managed a free throw for Barcelona, but Joel Parra’s last-second three-point attempt fell short.

Key Performances

Rodions Kurucs led Baskonia in scoring with 14 points, while Luwawu-Cabarrot contributed 13. Diakite’s defensive impact was undeniable, finishing the game with four blocks.

For Barcelona, Nicolas Laprovittola and Tornike Shengelia each scored 12 points, and Will Clyburn added 11.

Looking Ahead

Baskonia, with six Copa del Rey trophies to their name, will now face Real Madrid in the final, seeking their seventh title and first since 2009. Real Madrid advanced after defeating Valencia.

FAQ

• Who won the semifinal game? Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz defeated FC Barcelona 70-67.
• Who made the game-winning play? Mamadi Diakite made a crucial block in the final seconds.
• When is the Copa del Rey final? The final will be held on Sunday.
• Who is Baskonia playing in the final? Baskonia will play Real Madrid.