Hapoel Tel Aviv responded to its heavy loss in Game 1 with a blistering start in the second game of the series, opening with a 0-14 run. The red team, which had looked sluggish in the first meeting, came out in a much sharper mood and quickly seized control.
Maccabi Tel Aviv, coached by Oded Kattash, did not panic. After missing its early three-point attempts, the yellow team worked the ball inside the paint and gradually erased the deficit, getting back to level terms. The game remained tight and physical throughout.
Late in the first half, Oshae Brissett gave Maccabi its first lead, but Hapoel answered with strong possessions from Yam Madar and teammates to reclaim the advantage. Madar was the key figure for the hosts, driving the fast start with excellent shooting, assists and important rebounds.
Vasilije Micic also opened well for Hapoel, while Brissett stood out for Maccabi with energy and crucial rebounding. As of the report, the teams were in the third quarter with Hapoel leading 56-51, in the Israeli Basketball Premier League final.
