Sporting Clube de Portugal handed Ovarense its first defeat of the season in the Liga Betclic on Saturday, tightening the race at the top of the Portuguese basketball league standings.
Sporting secured a 78-64 victory in the fourth-round matchup. This win propelled Sporting into second place, where they are now tied with Ovarense at seven points. Benfica remains the undefeated leader with eight points.
The Lisbon-based club established an early advantage, leading 28-13 after the first period. Sporting maintained its lead into halftime, holding a 43-34 score.
The team’s effective defense and offense allowed them to control the pace of the game.
Francisco Amarante was a key player for Sporting, contributing 11 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal. For Ovarense, Jackson Stormo recorded a double-double with 12 points, 12 rebounds, 1 assist, and several steals.