Maccabi Tel Aviv Stumbles in EuroLeague Opener, Losing to LDLC ASVEL

Maccabi Tel Aviv suffered a disappointing 84-74 loss to LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne in their EuroLeague season opener on Thursday. Despite entering the 2026-27 season with higher expectations and an improved roster, Maccabi fell to a team considered one of the weaker contenders in the league.

The game started evenly, with both teams exchanging baskets and ending the first quarter tied at 19-19. However, the second quarter proved to be a difficult period for Maccabi, as they struggled offensively, allowing ASVEL to build a double-digit lead, largely fueled by three-pointers from veteran Patty Mills. Despite some efforts to close the gap, Maccabi trailed 42-32 at halftime.

Maccabi showed signs of a comeback in the third quarter, reducing the deficit to just six points. They even managed to briefly take the lead following a scoring run that included three-pointers from Yovel Zoosman and Roman Sorkin, and a basket from Oseij Bright. However, ASVEL regained the advantage and entered the final quarter with a 62-57 lead.

The fourth quarter saw Maccabi unable to close the gap. They lacked focus in crucial moments, while ASVEL capitalized on opportunities, hitting key three-pointers and drawing fouls to extend their lead. ASVEL maintained control throughout the final period, securing the 84-74 victory.

Top scorers for ASVEL included J.J. O'Brien with 19 points, Patty Mills with 15, and Marcos Knight with 14. For Maccabi, Jalen Reynolds led the team with 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Yovel Zoosman and Roman Sorkin each added 13 points.