UCAM Murcia showed character at the Palau Blaugrana by defeating Barça 87-90, tying the Liga Endesa quarterfinal series. Led by an inspired David DeJulius, who scored 22 points, the Murcia team held off the local reaction in the final minutes. The series now moves to Murcia, where the third and decisive game will be played.
The analytics of outside shooting as a differential factor 🏀
Data analysis of the match reveals that the key to the visitors' victory lay in efficiency from the perimeter. UCAM Murcia made 13 of 26 three-pointers, a 50% success rate, compared to Barça's 38%. The game system generated clear advantages through off-ball screens and quick ball movement, allowing for open shots. The Murcia defense, adjusted in the pick and roll, limited the local interior options and forced turnovers at critical moments.
Barça, from favorite to needing a miracle in Murcia 😅
The Blaugrana team, which arrived as the favorite, now must travel to Murcia with their backs against the wall. We'll see if the Palacio de los Deportes gives them the same allergy that gluten gives some people. Of course, if Jasikevicius's players miss another three-pointer in the last minute, they might consider changing the hoop for a bigger one. Or signing DeJulius, who seems smarter than a whip.