Belfast Wolves Show Fight and Character in Catalonia

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Belfast Wolves have completed the opening two days of their pre-season tournament in Balenyà, Catalonia, recording two victories from their first three games.

Bringing together players from Lithuania, Spain and Northern Ireland, the trip has provided valuable preparation ahead of the new season—both on and off the court.

Day One: Wolves Complete Comeback Victory

**La Parròquia – Bàsquet Samà SBM 37–43 Belfast Wolves**

**Friday, 4 September 2026 | 18:30**

**Pavelló Municipal d’Hostalets, Balenyà**

Our tournament began with a hard-fought comeback victory against La Parròquia – Bàsquet Samà SBM.

The Wolves trailed for much of the game as a newly assembled squad worked to adjust to unfamiliar teammates and different playing styles. With players representing Lithuania, Spain and Northern Ireland, communication and chemistry naturally took time to develop.

However, the team remained composed and produced its strongest basketball in the fourth quarter. Sergi Villalva and Vidmantas Kazlauskas delivered dominant performances, helping the Wolves take control late and secure a 43–37 victory.

Away from the court, the team enjoyed some well-earned leisure time, including swimming, sporting activities and the beautiful Catalan weather. The players also explored the historic old town of Vic and visited several of its cultural and historical landmarks.

Day Two: One Defeat and a Strong Response

Missed Opportunities Against the Tournament Favourites

**Belfast Wolves 33–47 CB Vilanova del Vallès**

**Saturday, 5 September 2026 | 12:45**

**Pavelló Municipal d’Hostalets, Balenyà**

Following a short night’s rest, the Wolves faced an early challenge against CB Vilanova del Vallès—one of the tournament favourites.

Poor sleep, a lack of communication and 11 missed free throws proved costly. Despite falling behind, the team continued to compete with passion and determination until the final buzzer.

Paulius Nausėda showed tremendous leadership throughout the contest, continuously encouraging his teammates to keep their heads up and remain fully committed, even when the result was moving beyond reach.

The final score did not reflect a lack of effort. Instead, it highlighted several important areas for the squad to address as it continues preparing for the season ahead.

Wolves Reset and Produce Their Best Performance

**Belfast Wolves 60–48 Lima-Horta Bàsquet**

**Saturday, 5 September 2026 | 17:15**

**Pavelló Municipal d’Hostalets, Balenyà**

Game Three was a completely different performance.

Following an honest team meeting, the players reset, improved their communication and returned to the court with renewed focus. Every member of the squad found a role that allowed them to demonstrate what they do best.

Young Wolves Ignas Pudėnas and Pijus Januškevičius delivered excellent performances, with Ignas making a particularly important scoring contribution. Experienced players Richard Bērziņš and Vidmantas Kazlauskas once again provided a dominant presence and helped the team control the game.

The intensity demonstrated exactly what competing in Spain is all about. Regardless of the score, both teams fought for every possession until the very end.

Emotions eventually boiled over during the closing stages, resulting in two players being disqualified—Ruaidhri Brendan of Belfast Wolves and one player from Lima-Horta Bàsquet. Unfortunately, the tournament has now ended for both players.

Despite the dramatic conclusion, the Wolves secured an impressive 60–48 victory and finished Day Two in excellent spirits.

The evening then brought more leisure activities, team bonding and plenty of socialising—with some members of the travelling party reportedly continuing until around 5:00 AM!

Final Day Fixtures

Belfast Wolves will complete their Catalonia tournament today with two final games:

Belfast Wolves vs CB Sant Josep Obrer

**Sunday, 6 September 2026 | 11:30**

**Pavelló Municipal d’Hostalets, Balenyà**

AE Sant Andreu Natzaret vs Belfast Wolves

**Sunday, 6 September 2026 | 17:15**

**Pavelló Municipal d’Hostalets, Balenyà**

With two victories from three games, the Wolves enter the final day with growing confidence, improved chemistry and plenty of positive experiences to carry into the new season.

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