The final regular season game for Ingeniería Ambiental CAB Estepona did not end as hoped, resulting in a home loss to Kutxabank Araski. Despite the desire to close the regular season with a victory, the team from Vitoria won by a close 74-77, with their effectiveness from beyond the arc being a key factor.
The game started with Kutxabank Araski showing great accuracy in their outside shots, scoring their first twelve points from three-pointers. However, CAB Estepona responded with points from key players, managing to tie the score and maintain competitiveness. The first quarter ended with a slight lead for the visitors (16-19).
During the second period, the home team managed to take the lead thanks to the performance of several of its players, despite accumulating personal fouls. A three-pointer by the CAB Estepona captain, marking her 100th three-pointer with the club in FEB competitions, was one of the highlights before halftime, which ended with a minimal lead for Kutxabank Araski (38-39).
After the break, Ingeniería Ambiental CAB Estepona displayed some of their best minutes, at one point holding a six-point lead. Nevertheless, Kutxabank Araski managed to turn the situation around in a tight end to the quarter, although a three-pointer and a defensive play from the Costa del Sol team allowed them to enter the decisive fourth period with a four-point advantage (64-60).
The final quarter proved decisive and unfavorable for the home side. An initial 0-9 run by Kutxabank Araski complicated CAB Estepona's chances. Despite efforts to rally and close the gap in the final minutes, the ball did not fall in crucial moments, sealing the defeat.
“"Everything was set for the end of the regular season to be a celebration in Estepona, but a scoreless final quarter ultimately gave the victory to Kutxabank Araski."
The game concluded with an emotional tribute to captain Noe Masiá, who, after five seasons with the club, announced her retirement at the end of the current campaign, surrounded by her loved ones.
