Hiopos Lleida seeks ninth victory against Baxi Manresa at Barris Nord pavilion

The match is crucial in the fight for permanence, with the local team recovering Melvin Ejim despite internal absences.

Basketball players in a pavilion during an intense match, fighting for possession of the ball.
IA

Basketball players in a pavilion during an intense match, fighting for possession of the ball.

The Hiopos Lleida basketball club faces Baxi Manresa this midday at the Barris Nord pavilion in a crucial match to secure their ninth victory and move away from the relegation zone.

Following the expected defeat against the powerful Valencia Basket in the last round, Gerard Encuentra's team returns home seeking a win that would bring them closer to virtual safety. The good news is the return of Melvin Ejim, who provides energy and experience to the interior game.
However, the situation of the centers remains delicate. Gyorgy Golomán is a serious doubt due to an ankle sprain, and both John Shurna and Cameron Krutwig arrive with discomfort, complicating the coach's rotation.

"The team is aware that we play at home and we must demand more from ourselves. We have many points of improvement and we want to enhance our performance."

Gerard Encuentra · Hiopos Lleida Coach
Baxi Manresa is characterized by its maximum intensity and full-court pressure, a style that, according to Encuentra, punishes Lleida's weaknesses. The coach stressed the need to improve assists and better control turnovers, areas where the team ranks among the worst in the league.

"We like playing in Lleida because the atmosphere is spectacular. It is a challenge to play against a very good team in such a beautiful basketball environment."

Diego Ocampo · Baxi Manresa Coach
Winning today at Barris Nord is crucial, as it would allow Hiopos Lleida to put a direct rival two victories away, taking a giant step towards the goal of permanence.