Valencia Basket overcame an early deficit to defeat Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv 94-83 at Roig Arena on Thursday, January 30.
The Spanish side improved to 16-9 in the EuroLeague, halting a three-loss slide and reinforcing its spot near the top of the standings.
Maccabi raced to a 47-35 lead late in the first half, pushing Valencia to respond after struggling with early rebounds and transition defense.
Pedro Martinez’s team flipped the script in the second half, increasing inside scoring attempts while limiting reliance on three-pointers.
Valencia attempted 33 two-point shots after halftime, converting 24 (72.7%), including seven of nine in the decisive fourth quarter.
Neal Sako anchored the comeback with 12 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and a block, spending more than 20 minutes on the floor to cover for injured Matt Costello. Kameron Taylor added 17 points.
Valencia dominated the final quarter 28-15, outpacing Maccabi in both energy and efficiency to secure the victory.
Maccabi managed just 33 points in the second half, a reflection of Valencia’s relentless pace and defensive adjustments.
Valencia outrebounded the visitors 36-38 overall, with Sako and Jose Pradilla combining for 15 boards in the second half to swing momentum firmly in the home team’s favor.
The win underlined Valencia’s physical and mental resilience as the EuroLeague season intensifies, keeping the team on course for a strong playoff push.
Valencia travels to face Anadolu Efes Istanbul next Tuesday, while Maccabi hosts Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade on the same night.
