A North Catalan man leads Baxi Manresa in the ACB Catalan League title
The Catalan League brings together more than 15,000 spectators over five days in Tarragona.
TarragonaAfter losing two consecutive finals, Baxi Manresa defeated Joventut to win the Catalan League ACB (83-79). Hugo Benítez, a Northern Catalan who arrived this summer, played a key role in a final played at a pace uncharacteristic of this stage of the season. The point guard, born in Toluges, had 14 points, 8 assists, and 4 assists. With just seconds left, Sam Dekker missed a three-pointer that would have sent the game into overtime, and Dani Pérez sealed the win with a free shot.
Diego Ocampo's risky approach paid off. "Our pace gave us confidence, and we had a very solid final stretch. We knew how to endure and win an important game. Winning the Catalan League is a very important reinforcement for us," analyzed the Galician coach of the Bagenc team.
"Baxi Manresa deserved to win the Catalan League. We started the final cold against a more energetic opponent. We reacted, but we lost our composure again. The positive aspect is the team spirit, which never gives up on a game," said coach Dani Miret.
The Catalan League drew a cumulative crowd of more than 15,000 over five days in Tarragona. "It was the best Catalan League in history. Catalan basketball is going through a historic moment, and the format has been a huge success. Centralizing everything in one venue makes it easier for fans to attend and for the organization," analyzed Ferran Aril, president of the Catalan Basketball Federation.
Spar Girona, women's champion
Spar Girona defeated Joventut (67-91) to win the Catalan Women's League. The team coached by Roberto Íñiguez used a 12-28 run in the second quarter to secure the victory. Mariam Coulibaly, who was decisive, added 30 points and 8 rebounds for 37 points. The center was named MVP of the final.
"We tried not to slow down, and the type of team we want to be showed. We're happy to have won a title that the club hasn't achieved in a while. The feeling is good, and we're building on a very good philosophy," summed up Marta Canella, captain of S.