Spain demonstrates a progression in victory against Czechia, moving forward in EuroBasket competition
In a thrilling pre-EuroBasket preparatory game, Spain emerged victorious against the Czech Republic, securing a 70-54 win at the Martín Carpena court.
The Spanish team started the game with a low quintet, but struggled initially, losing the first two possessions and trailing 0-6. However, the team quickly regrouped and began to find their rhythm. Czech Republic was successful from the perimeter in the early stages, making all four of their three-point attempts, but Spain responded with a barrage of three-pointers. Mario Saint-Supéry entered the game and scored the first three-pointer for Spain with two minutes left in the first quarter, starting a 7-0 run.
The second quarter was a turning point for Spain, as they outscored Czech Republic 23-14, shifting momentum significantly in their favour. Spain demonstrated better shooting efficiency, particularly in two-point field goals (53.6% compared to Czech's 24%) and free throws (76.9% vs. 63.6%), contributing to their improved offensive performance. The team also sustained control by maintaining a long time in the lead (26:31 minutes) and executing effective pick-and-roll plays that created scoring opportunities.
Individual performances stood out, notably Adrian Torres de la Torre scoring 20 points, indicating rising offensive leadership within the squad. Five players ended the game with double digits for Spain, demonstrating a balanced attack.
Czech Republic struggled when their three-point shots stopped falling in the second quarter, which was a contrast to their early success. Spain kept up the pressure in the second quarter, running from their own field through Arostegui's playmaking. Santi Yusta answered Czech Republic's two-on-one play at the start of the second quarter with a great three-pointer, while Sergio de la Rea scored a triple, and Puerto scored his fifth triple (the selection's top scorer with 15 points).
The real test begins now for Sergio Scariolo's team, as they prepare for their upcoming match against France, the reigning Olympic silver medalists, next Thursday. This victory was necessary for Spain after the bad feelings against Portugal, and it sets a promising tone for Spain’s competitiveness in the upcoming EuroBasket tournament. The entire Carpena ended up doing the wave as they enjoyed a convincing Spain victory (87-73).
The Spanish team's improved shooting efficiency in the second quarter, coupled with their ability to execute effective pick-and-roll plays, helped them turn the tide in their favor against Czech Republic, averaging 70 points per game. Adrian Torres de la Torre's 20 points indicated his rising influence as an offensive leader, contributing to the balanced attack that saw five Spanish players end the game with double-digit scores, including Puerto, who was the team's top scorer with 15 points.
