Larsen's Performance Propels HLA Alicante Towards Safety

Kevin Larsen's latest performance, this time against Alimerka Oviedo (87-79), has boosted HLA Alicante in their fight for survival. Since Rubén Perelló's arrival, the team has been competitive, showing resilience and securing seven victories, placing them close to safety.

The Danish centre has come close to a triple-double in HLA Alicante's last two victories. Against Silbö San Pablo, he recorded 15+6+10, and on Wednesday, he achieved 20+11+7 against Alimerka Oviedo Baloncesto, confirming his excellent form and ability to contribute across all statistical categories.

At the Pedro Ferrándiz pavilion, he delivered an almost flawless game on Wednesday: scoring 20 points with 8 of 11 two-point shots and 4 of 5 three-pointers; 11 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 fouls received, totalling 38 points in the rating, the highest of the week and his season record with the HLA Alicante jersey.

Larsen is now the highest-rated player in the competition (22.71), surpassing Jayson Granger (21.5), Gonzalo Corbalán (17.8), and Josip Vrankic (17.8). Within his team, he is the top scorer (22.7), leading rebounder (7.7), top assist provider (3.9), and, of course, the most valued player.

Coach Rubén Perelló highlighted the importance of the victory against Alimerka Oviedo and the team's resilience since his arrival. "It wasn't our best game, but these victories are doubly valuable because we've gained the basket average over Oviedo. Since the 0-10 start, we've had seven wins and seven losses, placing us sixth... The work is good, we're making strides towards safety, and we need to compete a bit better away from home to make that leap," said the HLA Alicante coach.

Meanwhile, Movistar Estudiantes managed to secure an important win in Castelló, returning home as the provisional leaders of the category. Pedro Rivero's men once again demonstrated mental strength to win a challenging match against Amics Castelló, who started the game with great intensity and set a high standard to take the lead. It was once again Jayson Granger's experience that brought calm to the team's play, turning the situation around. The pivotal moment came at the start of the final period when five consecutive points from Devin Schmidt led to a decisive 1-14 run for the Madrid team, securing their overnight leadership ahead of Wednesday's matches (85-89).