What it’s about:
Maccabi Tel Aviv secured a pivotal victory against Panathinaikos with an 85-83 win late Tuesday night, taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-5 Euroleague quarterfinal series. The win inches Maccabi closer to securing a spot in the esteemed Final Four.
Why it matters:
This victory not only showcases the athletic prowess and determination of the Maccabi Tel Aviv players but also represents a beacon of hope and unity for fans back home in Israel amidst challenging times. With over 1,000 fans making the journey to Belgrade to create a home-away-from-home atmosphere, the triumph serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit and support of the Maccabi community.
Key moments:
Maccabi dominated the game from the start, with Bonzie Colson leading the charge, culminating in a strong 23-11 lead by the end of the first quarter. Despite Panathinaikos’s valiant efforts to close the gap, Maccabi maintained the lead, thanks to standout performances from Josh Nebo and late-game heroics by Lorenzo Brown, who secured the win with clutch free-throws in the final seconds. This nail-biting finish not only emphasized the game’s intensity but also highlighted Maccabi’s resilience under pressure.
What’s next:
With the series lead, Maccabi Tel Aviv now eyes a victory in Game 4 this Thursday night to advance to the Final Four. Coach Oded Katash praised his team’s energy and commitment, signaling a focused approach to closing out the series with the same dynamism and teamwork showcased so far.
Player Perspectives:
Oded Katash expressed pride in his team’s deserved win, highlighting the positive energy and determination that led to this crucial victory. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos’s coach Ergin Ataman acknowledged the intense competition, hinting at missed opportunities that could have altered the game’s outcome but conceding that Maccabi had secured a well-fought victory.
Highlight Performances:
Josh Nebo’s impressive 22 points and nine rebounds, Lorenzo Brown’s pivotal 16 points and eight assists, and Bonzie Colson’s contribution of 13 points were instrumental in Maccabi’s triumph. Panathinaikos’s valiant effort was evident in Kendrick Nunn’s 25 points, Ioannis Papapetrou’s 17 points, and Mathias Lessort’s 14 points, highlighting the match’s competitive nature.
Closing thoughts:
This thrilling win not only brings Maccabi Tel Aviv one step closer to the Final Four but also reinforces the team’s status as resilient competitors on the European basketball stage. As fans and players alike look ahead with anticipation, the spirit of determination and unity shines brighter than ever, epitomizing the Maccabi Tel Aviv ethos.
This story was first published on jpost.com.