65-70: Joventut beats China

This Wednesday, Joventut defeated the Chinese team 65-70 in the first of two friendlies against Asian teams on their tour of China. The match at the Qujiang District Stadium marked the return of Ante Tomic, who had missed the last few games due to a virus infection. The Croatian centre was the top scorer for the Green and Black with 13 points, followed by Pau Ribas and Yannick Clarke, each with 11 points.

Kaiser Gates, who is feeling discomfort in his knee, and Miguel Allen, who is not with the team as he is recovering from a lumbar problem, were the only casualties for Dani Millet’s team.

The first half was very even, with both teams in a ferocious rhythm, but La Penya managed to go into the locker room with a one-point lead (34-35) and was all set for the second half.

After the break, Joventut extended their advantage, but China responded to keep the game in the balance again, going into the final quarter with everything decided (50-49).

The deadlock remained until the final minutes, when Joventut managed to extend their slight lead and push on to victory (65-70).

La Penya will face the Chinese team again next Friday (1.30pm Spanish time) in a match to be played at the Shaanxi Provincial Gymnasium.