By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The Israelis defended their home court and got the 90 – 83 wins. Alex Tyus and the rest of the hosts’ frontline dominated the paint during the entire game, but especially at the end, making big plays down the stretch. By the numbers, Maccabi registered a new team record with 53 rebounds.
The key: With two minutes left, Maccabi was leading by two points (83-81) and Luka Doncic had the ball. But he proved to be human after all, missing three shots until the end of the game. On the contrary, Tyus with two offensive rebounds and a key goal-foul made the score 86-81 and gave a much-needed edge to Maccabi at the most crucial moment.
Real started the game by scoring 30 points in the first 10 minutes. The Israeli powerhouse reacted with a 13-0 run to take the lead commanded by an unstoppable DeShaun Thomas (47 – 38, 19′). Maccabi dominated the offensive rebounds to begin the third quarter with a 5-point advantage.
A rejuvenated Felipe Reyes kept Madrid in the game with 10 points in the first 5 minutes of the half. With one quarter left the Spaniards led 64 – 66 on the scoreboard. The race between the two sides remained close until the end.
The star: DeShaun Thomas led all scorers with 21 points and he was supported by Michael Roll’s 16 during the game. At the end, Alex Tyus was the man who took control finishing 14 and 7 boards. Pierre Jackson was also really good for Maccabi as he ended with 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists.
Despite last minutes mistakes, Luka Doncic paced Real Madrid again with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Anthony Randolph was close to a double-double with 13 points and 9 boards.
Now both teams are tied in the standings (4-2) after the 55th European matchup.