Bryant Leads Hapoel Tel Aviv to Dramatic First EuroLeague Victory
Hapoel Tel Aviv secured their first-ever EuroLeague win of the 2026-27 season, narrowly defeating Crvena Zvezda Belgrade 81-80 in a dramatic away game in Serbia. This victory follows an opening-week loss to Bayern Munich.
American forward Elijah Bryant was the standout performer, recording a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds. He was instrumental in leading coach Dimitris Itoudis's team to the crucial win, just two days before a highly anticipated matchup against Real Madrid, who eliminated Hapoel Tel Aviv in the quarterfinals last season.
Hapoel Tel Aviv started strong, establishing a double-digit lead in the first quarter with key contributions from Zach LeDay, J'Covan Brown, and Bryant, who had 13 points and 7 rebounds by halftime. Despite a comeback attempt by the Serbian hosts, Hapoel maintained control, extending their lead to 45-35 at the half and 67-59 entering the final quarter, with contributions from Tomas Satoransky and LeDay.
The game appeared decided when Hapoel again built a double-digit advantage in the fourth quarter. However, Crvena Zvezda rallied, capitalizing on a scoring drought from Hapoel's three-point shooters to make the final minutes intensely close. Despite a quiet shooting night from beyond the arc, Vasilije Micić hit two crucial late baskets, and Hapoel managed to hold on for the win.
Bryant led all scorers with his 18 points and 10 rebounds. Zach LeDay and Antonio Blakeney also delivered strong performances for Hapoel Tel Aviv.
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