Valencia Basket overcame an early deficit to defeat Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv 94-83 at the Roig Arena on Thursday, January 30.
The Spanish squad improved to 16-9 in the EuroLeague, halting a three-loss slide and cementing its position at the top of the standings.
Maccabi jumped to a 47-35 lead late in the first half, forcing Valencia to respond after problems with early rebounds and transition defense.
Pedro Martinez’s team flipped the script in the second half, increasing the number of attempts to score inside while limiting their reliance on three-pointers.
Valencia attempted 33 two-point shots after halftime, converting 24 (72.7%), including seven of nine in the decisive fourth quarter.
Neal Sako anchored the comeback with 12 points, eight rebounds, two assists and a block, spending more than 20 minutes on the floor covering for the injured Matt Costello. Kameron Taylor added 17 points.
Valencia dominated the final quarter 28-15, outscoring Maccabi in both energy and efficiency to secure the win.
Maccabi scored just 33 points in the second half, a reflection of Valencia’s relentless pace and defensive adjustments.
Valencia outscored the visitors 36-38 on aggregate, with Sako and Jose Pradilla combining for 15 boards in the second half to swing the momentum firmly in the home side’s favour.
The victory underlined Valencia’s physical and mental resilience as the EuroLeague season intensifies, keeping the team on track for a strong playoff run.
Valencia travel to Anadolu Efes Istanbul next Tuesday, while Maccabi host Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade on the same evening.
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