Spain ACB Liga Endesa: Real Madrid beats champs

The biggest game of Round 24 of the Spain ACB Liga Endesa was held between Real Madrid and Valencia Basket in the Spanish capital. This was a clash between Real Madrid, the winningest club in Spain ACB Liga Endesa history, and Valencia, the surprise package from last season that won its first title last season.

Real Madrid secured an 83-71 win that maintained its comfortable lead at the top of the Spain ACB Liga Endesa standings. Los Blancos moved to 21-3 on this win, four games in front of its nearest challenger (Baskonia, 17-7) and looks certain to win the regular season championship. As for Valencia, the champs are down in fourth on 16-8 and will take its place in the playoffs at the end of the season.

It could have been different for Valencia as the visitors were up by 7 points through halftime. However, Real Madrid took back the momentum in the third act and powered to a game-winning 45-26 second half. The hosts built the success on consistency under the bucket, claiming 52 of its points in the paint, while Valencia could only manage 20 points in the same area. The guests were forced to play rangy shots throughout the game.

Edy Tavares and Anthony Randolph grabbed 13 points apiece, while Randolph added 7 rebounds for Real Madrid. Luka Doncic, Trey Thompkins, and Felipe Reyes all logged 10 points apiece in the win.

Will Thomas led Valencia with 12 points, while Tibor Pliess added 11 points in the losing effort.