Maccabi Tel Aviv Stumbles in EuroLeague Opener, Losing to ASVEL

Maccabi Tel Aviv began its 2026-27 EuroLeague season with a disappointing 84-74 road loss to ASVEL Villeurbanne on Thursday. The Israeli club struggled offensively throughout the game, falling behind by double digits in the first half. Despite a temporary comeback in the third quarter that saw them briefly take the lead, Maccabi could not contain ASVEL's prolific three-point shooting.

Maccabi entered the new season with significant reinforcements, including the return of Bonzie Colson and the addition of Yam Madar. They had recently secured the Super Cup by defeating Hapoel Tel Aviv. ASVEL, who finished last in the EuroLeague the previous season, is under the guidance of French basketball legend Tony Parker.

The game was close in the first quarter, ending tied at 19-19. However, ASVEL surged ahead in the second quarter with a 5-0 run and capitalized on Maccabi's offensive struggles to build a 42-32 halftime lead, fueled by numerous three-pointers.

Maccabi showed signs of life in the third quarter, narrowing the deficit to six points. Yam Madar and Roman Sorkin hit key threes, and J.J. Clark added another to give Maccabi a brief 51-49 lead. However, ASVEL quickly regained control and finished the quarter leading 62-57.

In the final quarter, Maccabi attempted another comeback, but ASVEL consistently answered with accurate three-pointers and free throws to maintain their advantage. A late surge by ASVEL, including five consecutive points from J.J. Redick and a missed open three by Clark, effectively sealed the victory for the French team.