Valencia leaned another victory and Corbalán started to earn his place

The play that marked the match was Sako's run in the final stretch. With Valencia about to lose its breathing room, the forward scored five consecutive points after an assist from Shorts and restored the double-digit advantage. Baskonia had come within two points at 67-65, but the home team closed the game with control to win 84-75 and extend its winning streak to four games in the ACB.

A comfortable start and a visitor's adjustment

At the Roig Arena, Valencia started with authority and reached a 16-point lead in the first quarter. The locals won that period 27-19 and appeared to be on track for an effortless night. Baskonia, however, changed its defensive setup in the second quarter and reduced the gap to 31-29. The home team answered with triples from Dylan Osetkowski and Brooks and went into halftime ahead 41-35.

Shorts was the most prominent figure on the court, finishing with 18 points and four assists. Neal Sako added 15 and Brooks completed 13 points. Corbalán played 14 minutes, scored two points and provided one assist. His contribution was modest on the scoreboard, but it showed a place in the rotation for the Argentine forward.

Baskonia's best stretch came immediately after halftime. The visitors took a 43-41 lead, their only lead of the game. Valencia responded through triples from Nikola Mirotic and Kameron Taylor, regained control and closed the third quarter ahead 59-53.

The final period was tense until Sako's burst. Baskonia refused to resign and got within two points with five minutes remaining. From there, Valencia managed the advantage without giving up the ball. The score of 84-75 also reflected the circumstances: Baskonia played with a reduced rotation, and the home team did not allow the comeback to become a full reversal.

“Corbalán's role is becoming more concrete: minutes, participation and a place in the rotation. The next games will show whether that opportunity can grow.”Pablo Ferraro

• Shorts led Valencia with 18 points and four assists.
• Sako finished with 15 points and was decisive in the final stretch.
• Brooks scored 13 points, and Corbalán contributed two points and one assist in 14 minutes.
• Baskonia had the reduced rotation that conditioned the final score.
• The win leaves Valencia with four consecutive victories in the ACB.

With this result, Valencia consolidated its position in the ACB table after five games. The form invites a question that goes beyond the next fixture: how far can this winning streak continue? For the fans, Corbalán's expectations are also clear. He needs minutes and responsibilities to continue earning his spot. The rest of the team has already shown the path; the forward still has to follow it.

The weekend closes with the table on display and the next round of fixtures. Valencia arrives in that stage with momentum, while Corbalán waits for a new opportunity to make his mark.