Holon Suffers Blowout Loss to Cholet in FIBA Champions League Opener
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Hapoel Holon was defeated 99-79 by French team Cholet in their FIBA Champions League opener, hampered by poor shooting and 20 turnovers. Despite a double-double from Adama Sanogo, Holon fell behind significantly in the second quarter and could not recover. Coach Predrag Krunic noted the team's lack of cohesion and focus, stating there is much work to be done.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Hapoel Holon lost its FIBA Champions League opener to French team Cholet with a score of 99-79.
- Holon committed 20 turnovers and struggled with poor shooting throughout the game.
- Adama Sanogo recorded a double-double for Holon, but it wasn't enough to secure a win.
- Cholet established a decisive lead with a 25-5 run in the second quarter.
- Coach Predrag Krunic cited a lack of team cohesion and focus as key issues.
Hapoel Holon began its FIBA Champions League season with a decisive 99-79 defeat against French team Cholet. The Israeli club struggled with poor shooting and committed 20 turnovers throughout the game. Despite a double-double performance from Adama Sanogo, Holon was unable to overcome Cholet's strong offensive showing, which featured notable contributions from Mohamed Diarra and 17-year-old Amadou Fall.
Initially, Holon kept the game close, even taking a brief lead thanks to Sanogo and the debut of guard Lester Medford. Medford showed intensity on both ends but also made several turnovers. The game remained tight into the second quarter, with Holon holding a slight advantage. However, Cholet closed the half with a dominant 25-5 run, ending the second quarter with a 33-9 scoreline to establish a 20-point lead.
Cholet intensified its defense and capitalized on Holon's offensive struggles, shooting accurately from all distances. During the second quarter, Andrew Thewell made an earlier-than-expected return from a thigh injury, playing without apparent limitations. Holon attempted a comeback in the third quarter, but Cholet effectively shut down their efforts. The 20 turnovers further hampered Holon's chances, leading to a largely inconsequential fourth quarter.
Coach Predrag Krunic acknowledged that the team, despite some absences, appeared disconnected and unfocused. While acknowledging the team's talent and potential, Krunic stated that there is significant work ahead for the "Purple-Yellows" to improve their cohesion and concentration for the remainder of the season.
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