Valencia Basket held off Olympiacos Piraeus 85-84 on Tuesday at Roig Arena, marking a key victory in its pursuit of a top playoff position.
The win improved Valencia’s record to 21-12 while handing Olympiacos its first loss at Valencia in nine attempts.
After a back-and-forth first quarter, the Reds controlled much of the game, but the hosts used the energy of the home crowd to stay competitive.
Sasha Vezenkov led Olympiacos with 17 points, but managed only two in the second half as Valencia tightened its defense.
Brancou Badio paced the hosts with 15 points, five rebounds and four assists, including four offensive boards that helped Valencia generate crucial second-chance points.
Jean Montero was decisive in the closing seconds, drawing a foul and sinking both free throws to secure the victory despite leaving the game with a hand injury.
Valencia out-assisted Olympiacos 27-17, countering the visitors’ league-leading passing attack and demonstrating strong ball movement down the stretch.
Tyrique Jones gave Olympiacos a temporary lead late, but Nate Reuvers responded with a basket inside to spark a 6-0 Valencia run.
Braxton Key added 12 points and helped the hosts hold a 34-30 rebounding advantage, controlling the glass when it mattered most.
The victory allowed Valencia to claim the head-to-head edge over Olympiacos and keeps the club on track for a potential home-court advantage in the postseason.
Valencia will look to extend its winning streak on Thursday when it faces Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, while Olympiacos travels to LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne on April 3.
