Sekulic's sense of smell balances Barça

BarcelonaThe double European matchday at the Palau Blaugrana began with a victory for Barça against Maccabi (90-87). The blue and garnet team pulled off a very dangerous game and added their third win in the Euroleague (3-2). Aleksander Sekulic's instinct balanced a Culer side that is still too inconsistent. The coach got it right with a game plan that knew how to give prominence to Umoja Gibson and Justin Robinson at the opportune moment. The first provided energy during the most difficult stretch. The second decided it with a three-pointer with 1.6 seconds remaining.

The State Commission against Violence, Racism, Xenophobia and Intolerance in Sport declared the match high-risk, but unlike recent precedents, the Palau Blaugrana was able to host an audience (3,637 spectators). Only season ticket holders and members. The cheering groups displayed Palestinian flags.

Maccabi, which is the worst three-point shooting team in the EuroLeague, made 9 of the 18 three-pointers they attempted during a very even first half. The Israeli team took advantage of their outside shooting and some alternative defenses to trouble a Barça side that could not find continuity in their play (40-42).

The visitors used Yam Madar's points to keep pace, and the hosts took advantage of Umoja Gibson's energy to reach the final ten minutes with a lead on the scoreboard (67-64). When the decisive moment arrived, Barça showed their most forceful version to open up a gap on the scoreboard (83-75). Problems securing the rebound fueled Maccabi's hopes, as they reached the final seconds with a chance to win. Iffe Lundberg tied the game with three free throws with 19.2 seconds left (87-87).

Justin Robinson scored a key three-pointer with 1.6 seconds left. Bonzie Colson, however, missed the shot that would have sent the game into overtime.

Demanding schedule

With little time to recover much energy, Barça will play against Olympiacos on Friday. The blue and garnet team will close the week by visiting Asisa Joventut at the Palau Olímpic in Badalona.