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

Maccabi Tel Aviv began its 2026-27 EuroLeague season with a disappointing 84-74 road loss to LDLC ASVEL in Lyon. The Israeli team 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, which finished last in the EuroLeague the previous season, is under the guidance of French basketball legend Tony Parker.

The game started evenly, with both teams exchanging early three-pointers. ASVEL pulled away in the second quarter, capitalizing on a Maccabi scoring drought to build a 42-32 halftime lead. Maccabi rallied in the third quarter, with Yam Madar and Roman Sorkin hitting key threes, and Ousmane Balde briefly giving them a 51-49 lead. However, ASVEL quickly regained control and ended the quarter ahead 62-57.

In the final quarter, Maccabi attempted another comeback, but ASVEL consistently responded with accurate three-pointers and free throws. A late surge by ASVEL, including five consecutive points from J.J. O'Brien and a missed three-pointer by J.J. Clark that could have shifted momentum, sealed the victory for the French team. ASVEL's 15th three-pointer of the game extended their lead to 65-60, effectively deciding the outcome.