Valencia got off to a fantastic start, scoring as many as 30 points in the opening quarter while shooting efficiently from inside the arc (7/11). On the other side, the visitors struggled with turnovers, committing six in the first period, which immediately put them at a disadvantage.
Jabari Parker was in fine form during the first half and was the only player on his team to reach double figures, scoring 12 points. However, Valencia also had a standout performer in Jaime Pradilla.
Joventut played slightly better in the second quarter, but Valencia still headed into halftime with a comfortable 11-point cushion.
Both teams relied heavily on three-point shooting after the break, but neither found much success from long range. Valencia, however, remained flawless on two-point attempts (5/5), allowing the home side to maintain its lead heading into the final quarter.
Parker continued to knock down shots—something he was unable to consistently showcase during his stint with Partizan—but his efforts were matched by an excellent performance from Brancou Badio. Jean Montero also delivered another strong outing, and all signs suggest he could be on the move this summer.
The EuroLeague side entered the final 10 minutes with an 18-point advantage, which proved more than enough to secure the win and a 2-0 series lead.
Badio led the winners with 16 points, followed by Alvaro Cardenas with 13. For Joventut, Parker also finished with 16 points and was the team’s only player in double figures.
The next game is scheduled for June 14, when Joventut will host the series for the first time.
