By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
In front of an empty Aleksandar Nikolic Hall in Belgrade due to the ongoing war occurring in Israel, Hapoel Jerusalem had to beat PAOK by three or more points in order to qualify for the 2023-24 Basketball Champions League Round of 16, securing the 1st place in Group G.
Surviving the Greek side’s comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, the Israeli side got the 71-61 victory. This means that, after participating in last year’s Final Four, losing against Telekom Baskets Bonn in the big final for gold, they will play in the Round of 16, while PAOK will participate in the Play-Ins.
Putting in an almost full-court shot, Speedy Smith was crucial in the point guard position for Hapoel, performing an all-around game of 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists.
Zach Hankins and Levi Randolph both contributed with 13 points each, helping the Israeli team get the victory, while Chris Johnson added 16 points and 7 rebounds for Aleksandar Dzikic’s team, being the X-Factor on the black-and-red team since coming back.
On PAOK’s side, Michael Gilmore went close to a double-double with 12 points and 9 rebounds, but he wasn’t enough. Andrew Harrison had 12 points and 5 assists, while the Icelandic leader Elvar Fridriksson, who recently spoke to Eurohoops, added 7 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists.
While Hapoel Jerusalem and PAOK’s fates are already decided, only one between Galatasaray and SL Benfica will join the Play-Ins conversation by facing each other as well in the BCL Week 9.
PHOTO CREDIT: Basketball Champions League