Dénia Bàsquet SUMA-BPM LIGHTING was unable to beat CBI Elche in a match marked by the visitors' extraordinary success in three-pointers, who achieved a remarkable 44% efficiency (15 out of 34). This factor, together with other details, tipped the balance in favour of the Elche team, joint leaders of the standings, in a match played at the Joan Fuster pavilion.
Despite the constant support of the home fans, Eduardo Clavero's team went into the break with a negative score (29-47). Although they managed to dominate the inside game and remain balanced on the rebound, the turnovers and errors in the free throw line were penalizing, especially during the first two quarters, when CBI Elche scored 9 of its initial 20 three-pointers.
The third quarter was an example of grit and effort for Dénia Bàsquet, which had its best period of the season. The locals, driven by a great defense and outstanding teamwork, added 37 points, reaching a tie (56-56) in just six minutes that thrilled the crowd.
However, the visitors' reaction was not long in coming. Led by their most decisive player, center Andreatta, and with new decisive three-pointers (4 of 8 in this period), CBI Elche regained control of the match, closing the third quarter with an advantage (66-75).
In the last period, despite Dénia's attempts to close the gap, the Elche team demonstrated why they are candidates for promotion to the Second FEB, handling the final stretch with ease and taking the victory.
Next challenge in a crucial context
With the start of the second round, Dénia Bàsquet now faces a decisive phase of the season. Their next match will be on the difficult court of Jorge Juan Novelda, a direct rival who won the first leg and who has four victories compared to the two of the team from Dénia. This duel will be key to closing the gap in the standings.
In other important matches, Alginet and CBI Elche, third and second in the table respectively, will face each other in a direct clash, while the leader, CB Benidorm, will visit Sueca, fourth in the table. In addition, Molina de Segura and Ontinyent will measure their strength in a duel that could be decisive for their aspirations in the final stretch of the championship.
