Mirotic's strong double-double, Barca get the second victory in Liga ACB / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Barca Basket Credit Barca Basket

FC Barcelona (2-0) eased past Gran Canaria (1-1) 82-64 (23-17, 18-9, 21-18, 20-20) and remained undefeated in the Liga ACB.

Barca came out strong from the first minute. They made a 12-2 run and continued to grow their lead which eventually reached 16 points (23-7). However, Gran Canaria did not lose hope and answered with a 10-0 run at the end of the quarter (23-17). The Catalans made 6 threes out of 8 in the first. Higgins led the way with 9 points (3/3 3PT).

In the second quarter, Sarunas Jasikevicus' squad locked up rivals and left them with 9 points per period. Kuric put on a show in second, scoring 8 points out of Barca's 18. Barcelona were in front after the first half by 15 points (41-26). Mirotic had an all-around performance in the first 20 minutes with 8 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists.

In the third, Gran Canaria's Stevic and Slaughter organized a 9-2 run but Barca stabilized the positions. They struck back with a 10-0 sprint thanks to Calathes, Mirotic, and Davies. The margin between the clubs reached the apex of 18 points (53-35). It was not the end as Kuric kept hitting shots. Barca were in front by 18 after 30 minutes of playing time (62-44).

At the start of the decisive period, Higgins and Calathes made a couple of baskets which did not leave the questions on the winner.

A clear end of the match allowed for some extensive rotation on both benches.

Sertac Sanli made his debut with Barca's jersey in the official game and scored 4 points.

Barcelona:Nikola Mirotic 14 (16 REB, 4 AST), Cory Higgins 13 (3 AST), Kyle Kuric 13, Brandon Davies 8 (3 REB), Nick Calathes 8 (3 AST), Nigel Hayes-Davis 7, Nicolas Laprovittola 7.

Gran Canaria: Dylan Ennis 13 (2 REB, 2 AST), Artem Pustovyi 11 (2 REB), AJ Slaughter 10 (2 AST), Miquel Salvo 8 (3 REB), Chris Kramer 7 (2 AST).

Like what we are doing? Support us by becoming BN+ member.