Backed by Moneke's double-double, Manresa book Spanish final in BCL competition / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

In the second semifinal of the Basketball Champions League, BAXI Manresa overcame MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, 63-55 (20-17, 15-18, 20-14, 8-6), and booked a Spanish final.

Player of the Game EFF 14 Chima Moneke Points 13 Accuracy 4-7 Rebounds 13 Assists 0

Pedro Martinez's squad will meet Tenerife Lenovo, which edged out Hapoel Holon earlier today. The competition final is scheduled for Sunday, May 8, at 20:00 CET.

It will be the third time in a row when the BCL title is won by the Spanish squad. Last two years San Pablo Burgos conquered the top of the tournament.

After an even first half (35-35), Yankuba Sima and Sylvain Francisco-powered Manresa created a substantial 8-point advantage (55-47) at the end of the third quarter.

Chima Moneke took over the flag in the fourth, while Manresa were up by 9 (60-51) with 4 minutes to go. Both clubs exchanged with the baskets, as Joe Thomasson hit a three-point dagger (63-55) with 2:30 to go.

As it turned out later, Thomasson's triple was the last bucket for both clubs. Meanwhile, Manresa limited Ludwigsburg to only 6 points per fourth quarter.

Chima Moneke had a double-double with 13 points (4/6 2PT, 0/1 3PT, 5/10 FT), 13 rebounds, 3 turnovers, 2 steals, and 18 PIR for the winners.

Justin Simon was a bright spot on the other side, finishing the duel with 18 points (6/11 2PT, 1/2 3PT, 3/5 FT), 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 turnover, 1 steal, and 17 PIR.

Manresa: Yankuba Sima 15, Chima Moneke 13 (13 REB), Ismael Bako 10, Joe Thomasson 10 (6 REB).

Ludwigsburg: Justin Simon 18 (5 REB),Jonah Radebaugh 7 (9 REB).

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