'A true leader and winner': Marcelinho Huertas played being sick without telling anyone / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Lenovo Tenerife outscored Joventut Badalona in the first game of the Spanish Copa del Rey by just two points (64-62).

Lenovo Tenerife / Schedule

Joventut Badalona Lenovo Tenerife62-64 Real Madrid Lenovo TenerifeSat17:30

The Aurinegros had a maximum of 17 points margin in the second half (51-34), but the Catalan team managed to come back with a spectacular 18-3 run with Vladimir Brodziansky and Joel Parra. However, it was not enough.

Sasu Salin hit a 3-point shot in the last minute of the game, while Giorgi Shermadini sealed the game with free throws.

Joventut could not complete what could have been one of the biggest comebacks in the tournament's history.

The iconic 38-year-old Marcelinho Huertas finished the game with 8 points and 8 turnovers in almost 29 minutes of action. He controlled the game in the first half from the pick & roll, but he looked exhausted in some moments. He lacked breath.

After the game, Txus Vidorreta revealed that the Brazilian guard played with a cold.

"I found it out at the end of the game. He did not say anything. I did not know that he was sick," Vidorreta revealed. "He practically did not talk to me during the game, and now I realized why. His voice didn't lie."

"He wanted to be on the court helping the team. He is a true leader. He is a winner," Vidorreta praised Marcelinho's effort.

Marcelinho did an extra effort tonight due to Bruno Fitipaldo’s absence. The Uruguayan guard was sidelined with a back injury. He is doubtful for the semifinals.

Huertas is still the historical leader in assists of the Spanish Copa del Rey with 133 (he dished 3 against Joventut), while Pablo Prigioni ranks second with 109.

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