A record-breaking 13,481 spectators packed the Movistar Arena in Madrid on Sunday, witnessing a thrilling matchup between Movistar Estudiantes and Hozono Global Jairis Alcantarilla, with the home team emerging victorious 66-57. This historic attendance shattered the previous record for a women’s basketball game in Spain, showcasing the growing interest in the sport. The sold-out event, which was dedicated to International Women’s Day, saw the visitors from Murcia put up a fierce fight, seeking their fourth consecutive win in the Liga Femenina Endesa.
The game got off to a blistering start, with Estudiantes taking an early 8-2 lead, but Jairis Alcantarilla quickly regrouped under the guidance of coach Bernat Canut. By the end of the first quarter, the visitors had not only erased the deficit but also taken a five-point lead, demonstrating their solidity on defense. As the first quarter came to a close, Jairis Alcantarilla held a 17-12 advantage, setting the stage for an intense battle.
The momentum shifted back and forth, with Jairis Alcantarilla extending their lead to 25-15. However, Estudiantes staged a dramatic comeback, outscoring their opponents 22-4 over a six-minute stretch to take a commanding 37-29 lead into halftime. This pivotal run marked a turning point in the game, as Estudiantes gained the upper hand and never looked back.
In the second half, Estudiantes continued to dominate, stabilizing their advantage and maintaining a double-digit lead throughout the third quarter. By the end of the period, they had extended their lead to 14 points, with the score standing at 51-37. Despite a late push from Jairis Alcantarilla in the final quarter, Estudiantes held firm, securing a hard-fought 66-57 victory.
The Movistar Arena erupted in celebration, honoring both the record-breaking attendance and Estudiantes’ well-deserved win. Frieda Buhner, with 19 points, emerged as the game’s top scorer, while Petra Holesinska led the charge for Jairis Alcantarilla with 15 points. This memorable encounter will undoubtedly be remembered as a milestone in Spanish women’s basketball, highlighting the sport’s growing popularity and the talented athletes who are driving its success.
