Barcelona defeats Crvena zvezda 80-72 to advance in EuroLeague play-in stage
Barcelona defeats Crvena zvezda 80-72 to advance in EuroLeague play-in stage Photo Credit: Barça Basket
Xavi Pascual’s Barcelona side took a significant step toward the EuroLeague playoffs with a convincing home victory over Serbian powerhouse Crvena zvezda. The 80-72 triumph at Palau Blaugrana on Tuesday ensures the Catalan club will face Monaco in the decisive final round of the play-in stage, with a coveted playoff spot hanging in the balance.
The foundation for Barcelona’s success was laid in a spectacular first half display. The blaugranes exploded out of the gates, establishing a commanding 20-11 advantage in the opening quarter. Their long-range shooting was particularly devastating, connecting on seven of nine 3-point attempts to set the tone early.
Clyburn and Punter lead the offensive charge
Will Clyburn emerged as the catalyst for Barcelona’s early dominance, helping guide his team to a 29-21 lead at the end of the first quarter. The American forward would finish as joint-top scorer with 22 points, matching the output of teammate Kevin Punter in a balanced offensive display.
Barcelona maintained their relentless pressure throughout the second period, with contributions from Willy Hernangómez, Punter, and Clyburn extending their advantage to a comfortable 47-33 cushion at halftime. The home side’s momentum continued into the third quarter, where they stretched their lead to a game-high 22 points at 60-38.
However, Crvena zvezda showed their championship pedigree by mounting a spirited comeback attempt. The Serbian visitors clawed their way back into contention, reducing the deficit to just 12 points at 63-51 entering the final period. Their resilience continued in the fourth quarter, as they managed to cut Barcelona’s lead to a precarious seven points at 75-68.
Despite the late pressure from their opponents, Barcelona demonstrated composure and experience to close out the victory. The final 80-72 scoreline secured their progression to Friday’s winner-takes-all encounter against Monaco in the Principality, where a place in the EuroLeague playoffs awaits the victor.
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