Xavi Pascual won't need a miracle to play in the Cup: ARA's Instant Replay

BarcelonaXavi Pascual, who will take the reins at Barça this Monday, won't need a miracle to qualify the team for the Copa del Rey. The victory against Baskonia (91-83), Òscar Orellana's third consecutive win as interim coach, eases the Catalan team's position in the Liga Endesa standings. The seven three-pointers made by Darío Brizuela and Will Clyburn proved decisive.

A victory to dramatize

Baxi Manresa won the Catalan derby against Hiopos Lleida (99-86). After competing very well for 20 minutes, Gerard Encuentra's team ran out of steam at the Nou Congost. Hugo Benítez, who tallied 22 points and 8 assists, and Álex Reyes, who scored 24 points, going 6-for-9 from three-point range, were decisive. "The victory helps build an identity, but it's not good to overreact. It's just basketball," Diego Ocampo reminded everyone.

Ruzic disguises himself as Dekker

Joventut capitalized on a dominant first quarter to secure a 78-92 victory at Dreamland Gran Canaria. Michael Ruzic filled in for Sam Dekker, who sat out due to a recent lack of confidence. The Croatian power forward tallied 16 points in just 21 minutes and 47 seconds of play. "We've achieved a prestigious victory," commented Dani Miret, the Joventut coach.

Fonatajau is already making a difference

Baloncesto Girona defeated Coviran Granada (82-76) and secured their third consecutive victory at Fontajau. The home team overcame an eleven-point deficit against a direct rival. A spectacular 17-0 run in the third quarter propelled Moncho Fernández's squad to victory. "I'm happier with this win than with the one against Barça," admitted the Galician coach. The opposing team complained about the officiating.