Gimnasia La Plata returned to the Polideportivo Víctor Nethol and secured a victory, defeating River Plate 96-82 in a La Liga Argentina de Básquetbol matchup.
Offensive Leaders Drive Gimnasia Performance
Gimnasia’s offensive production was led by Castellani, who recorded 20 points. Teammates Cueva and Gutierrez Conde contributed to the scoreline with 17 points each. On the opposing side, River Plate’s Conte Grand led his team with 17 points, though the visitors were unable to overcome the consistent pressure applied by the home side throughout the second half.
River Plate and Gimnasia Trade Early Points Before a Narrow Lead
The game began with both teams engaged in a tactical struggle for control. River Plate initially pulled ahead 13-7 behind the efforts of Conte Grand and Cardona. Gimnasia responded shortly after, as Castellani helped equalize the score at 13-13. The teams remained close for the duration of the opening period, which ended with Gimnasia holding a narrow 26-24 lead.
Expanding the Lead in the Second Quarter
The second period saw an increase in perimeter scoring. Gimnasia’s Cimperman opened the quarter with a series of successful three-pointers, followed by Cueva, which allowed the hosts to extend their lead to 37-26. Despite Conte Grand’s efforts to keep River Plate within striking distance, additional shots from beyond the arc by Boffelli and Castellani maintained Gimnasia’s momentum. The teams entered the halftime break with Gimnasia leading 55-44.
Consolidating the Victory in the Second Half
Following the halftime interval, the squad coached by Fernando Calvi continued to manage the game’s tempo. Gimnasia utilized various offensive sets to widen the gap, pushing their lead to 20 points during the third quarter. While Conte Grand and Cardona attempted to facilitate a late-game surge for River Plate, the home team held firm, closing the third quarter with an 81-64 advantage.
Closing Out the Final Period
In the opening minutes of the final quarter, Castellani and Gutierrez Conde increased the lead to 24 points, bringing the score to 90-66. As the clock wound down, Gimnasia maintained defensive discipline to seal the 96-82 victory.
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