Surne Bilbao opened the 2026/27 preseason with a convincing 103-81 win over Alega Cantabria at the Emilio Amavisca Sports Hall in Laredo, the first test of the summer for Jaume Ponsarnau's side. The final score and the flow of the game, including the decisive run before halftime and Nate Darling's leading performance, were reported by Piratas del Basket and Mundo Deportivo — Baloncesto.
Team effort sets the tone in Laredo
Played at a venue Bilbao regularly visits for summer preparation, the friendly delivered exactly what is needed in September: minutes for the newcomers, competitive rhythm and no physical setbacks. After a balanced start, Bilbao put together a 22-0 surge to turn 29-31 into 51-31 at the break, a stretch that decided the contest.
Offensive leader was Nate Darling, named MVP after posting 22 points and 3 assists, with 14 points already at halftime. His outside shooting and ability to create advantages allowed Surne Bilbao to stretch the floor and manage the lead through deep rotations in the second half.
Inside, Tryggvi Hlinason added valuable presence, while Spencer Jenkins and Urban Lapornik led the scoring for Cantabria. In the Liga Endesa context, the opener provides a first marker of conditioning and chemistry before a heavier schedule of friendlies ahead of the official tip-off.
Minutes, testing and next steps
For the coaching staff, the game was a chance to test sets, share minutes and assess how new additions adapt in live action. The margin reflected Bilbao's collective control, maintaining defensive intensity and rebounding to close out the win comfortably in the final minutes.
