Maccabi Tel Aviv Opens EuroLeague Season on Road Against ASVEL

Maccabi Tel Aviv begins its EuroLeague campaign on Thursday with an away game against ASVEL in France, aiming to break a streak of not winning their opening EuroLeague road game since the 2017-18 season. Historically, ASVEL has been a favorable opponent for Maccabi, who have won their last 10 consecutive matchups. ASVEL finished last in the EuroLeague last season and is expected to struggle again this year, despite the debut of legendary player Tony Parker as head coach. Parker's team faced budget issues, leading to player departures.

Maccabi's coach, Oded Katash, hopes for an improved European season and continuity from their impressive performance in the Social Super Cup derby. Key players for Maccabi include Jalen Reynolds, Ozzie Butler, and Daniel Theis, who are fit to play. Yam Madar is set to make his EuroLeague debut for the team, along with Keeton Wallace and Armando Bacot. Bonzie Colson will also be making his return to the team. T.J. Leaf is not registered for the game.

The first quarter saw Maccabi's starting lineup of Lorenzo Brown, Yam Madar, Bonzie Colson, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Roman Sorkin. ASVEL countered with Mark-O'Quinn Podeswa Dada, Patty Mills, Yves Pons, Jalen Green, and Joel Bolomboy. ASVEL took the initial lead with a basket from Podeswa Dada, but Madar responded with a difficult three-pointer. ASVEL's Green and Pons also contributed with three-pointers, bringing the score to 3-9.