Mallorca W earned a valuable road victory in the Liga Femenina de Baloncesto, defeating IDK Gipuzkoa W 71-59 on 18 October 2026. The visitors produced a composed fourth-quarter performance to break open a tight contest and secure a result that could prove important in the early-season standings.

Match overview

IDK Gipuzkoa W started with energy in front of their home support, edging a low-scoring first quarter 16-15. Mallorca W responded before halftime, moving the ball more efficiently and taking a 34-31 lead into the break. The third quarter remained closely fought, with neither side able to build a significant advantage, but Mallorca’s defensive pressure began to take a toll. Leading 51-48 entering the final period, the visitors finished strongly to pull away.

Key moments

The decisive stretch came early in the fourth quarter. Mallorca opened with a 9-0 run, forcing Gipuzkoa into turnovers and hurried perimeter shots. Gipuzkoa briefly steadied themselves and cut the deficit to 62-57, but Mallorca answered with a 9-2 burst to restore control. From there, the visitors managed the clock well and converted their free throws down the stretch, denying the home side any realistic route back into the game.

Tactical story

Mallorca’s defensive discipline was the foundation of the win. They limited IDK Gipuzkoa to 33% shooting from the field and controlled the defensive glass, preventing second-chance points. Gipuzkoa struggled from beyond the arc, making just five of 24 three-point attempts, and their half-court offense became increasingly predictable in the closing minutes. Mallorca, by contrast, shared the scoring load and attacked the paint when the outside shot was not available.

Standout performers

Mallorca’s backcourt leader was central to the result, finishing with 18 points, six rebounds and four assists while setting the tempo on both ends. Their interior defense also impressed, contesting shots without fouling. For Gipuzkoa, the center was a bright spot with 16 points and 11 rebounds, but she lacked consistent support around her. The home side’s guards combined for only 14 points, a statistic that underlined their offensive difficulties.

Season impact

The win gives Mallorca W momentum and an important road result in the Liga Femenina de Baloncesto standings. Road victories are often decisive in a league where home courts are notoriously difficult, and this performance will boost confidence ahead of the next round. For IDK Gipuzkoa W, the defeat highlights the need for greater offensive balance and better perimeter shooting. The head-to-head record now favors Mallorca, though the teams will have further opportunities to respond as the season develops.