The MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s Knockout competition delivered high drama this week, headlined by a sensational fourth-quarter comeback and a powerhouse individual performance from the Violets.

Hibernians Dethrone Holders with Late Surge

Betsson Depiro 60 – 64 Hibernians

In the match of the round, Hibernians pulled off a stunning 13-point comeback in the final quarter to eliminate the defending champions, Betsson Depiro. The Paolites looked to be heading for an exit until a late-game resurgence shifted the momentum entirely. McLeod was the catalyst for the victory, putting up a dominant double-double, while De Martino (17 points) and Diaby (13 points) provided the necessary scoring punch to seal the semifinal berth.

For Depiro, the loss marks the end of their title defense despite a strong showing from Sonnier, who finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds. The Borg duo (Borg and Borg Xerri) combined for 25 points, but their efforts were eclipsed by the Hibernians’ late-game heroics.

Luxol Cruise into Semifinals

Caffe Moak Luxol 71 – 41 Valletta Dream

Caffe Moak Luxol secured their place in the final four with a clinical and commanding victory over Valletta Dream. The “Violets” were led by a monstrous performance from Wikstrom, who dominated the paint to finish with an incredible 27 points and 20 rebounds. Baldacchino and Lisa Fenech Pace added double-figure contributions to ensure the win was never in doubt.

Valletta Dream struggled to find their rhythm against the Luxol defense, though Lin battled hard to lead her side’s scoring with 24 points. Caballero added 11, but the gap in depth and rebounding proved too much for the Valletta side to overcome.

Both Hibernians and Luxol now turn their focus to the semifinals as the race for the KO silverware heats up.