Univ Arad (w) secured a hard-fought 60-52 victory over CS Teleorman Alexandria Women in the Liga Nationala de Baschet Feminin, relying on defensive discipline and a decisive third-quarter run to separate the teams. In a low-scoring contest, Arad’s ability to create extra possessions and convert around the basket proved the difference.

A tight, physical contest

The opening quarter was played at a deliberate pace, with both sides prioritising defence. Arad led 16-12 after the first ten minutes, but Teleorman Alexandria responded well in the second period, cutting the deficit and forcing Arad into several difficult late-clock attempts. At halftime, the game remained finely balanced, with Arad holding a 30-25 advantage.

Quarter-by-quarter

• First quarter: Univ Arad 16-12
• Second quarter: Univ Arad 14-13
• Third quarter: Univ Arad 15-11
• Fourth quarter: Teleorman Alexandria 16-15
• Final score: Univ Arad (w) 60-52 CS Teleorman Alexandria Women

The third quarter proves decisive

Arad’s most important spell came immediately after halftime. The hosts increased their defensive pressure on the ball, forced Teleorman into rushed decisions and limited second-chance points. A 15-11 third-quarter advantage pushed the lead to 45-36, giving Arad enough breathing room to withstand a late push from the visitors.

Teleorman Alexandria fought back in the fourth quarter, using drives and offensive rebounds to stay within striking distance. However, Arad’s composure at the free-throw line and their ability to slow the tempo in the final minutes protected the win. The visitors had chances to cut the gap further, but several empty possessions in the closing stretch proved costly.

Standout performers

Arad’s frontcourt anchored the win, controlling the defensive glass and providing a steady inside scoring threat. The team’s guards managed the game well, particularly in the third quarter when Arad built its decisive cushion. Teleorman Alexandria’s perimeter players showed fight in the fourth, but the visitors were unable to sustain enough offensive rhythm across all four quarters.

What the result means

The victory gives Univ Arad (w) an important result in the Liga Nationala de Baschet Feminin and underlines their ability to win games without relying on high-scoring outputs. For CS Teleorman Alexandria Women, the loss is a reminder that execution in the middle two quarters is often decisive in tight defensive battles. Arad will aim to build on the win, while Teleorman will look to improve their late-game shot selection and rebounding balance.