Israeli National Basketball League Sees Buzzer-Beaters and Upsets

The fifth round of the Israeli National Basketball League concluded with several dramatic finishes and significant outcomes. In the headline game, Maccabi Ofek South secured an 88-81 victory over Elitzur Yavne, marking Ofek South's second consecutive win and their first away victory of the season, improving their record to 3-2. Yavne, conversely, suffered their fifth straight loss and remains winless.

In another nail-biter, Maccabi Ra'anana edged out Elitzur Netanya 75-72 with a last-second shot by Brailie Liam Albert. This loss was Netanya's first of the season, while Ra'anana maintained their undefeated home record, both teams now standing at 4-1. The game saw multiple lead changes and clutch plays in the final minutes.

Ironi Ashkelon fell to Maccabi Rehovot 92-66, marking Rehovot's third consecutive win and a 4-1 record. Ashkelon, under new coach Hanan Hirshovitz, dropped to 2-3 after their second consecutive loss. Rehovot dominated the game, particularly in the first half, and showcased strong teamwork with 29 assists compared to Ashkelon's 12.

In other matches, AS Ashkelon/Kiryat Gat achieved their first win of the season, defeating Hapoel Haifa 80-79 on a dramatic buzzer-beater by Tomer Cohen. Hapoel Migdal HaEmek/Yizrael lost at home to Maccabi Mandel Petah Tikva 94-87, with Petah Tikva securing their first away win. Ironi Nahariya continued their strong start with a 78-69 road victory against Hapoel Hevel Modi'in, solidifying their position at the top of the standings. Finally, AS Ramat Hasharon secured a significant away win against Elitzur Shomron 77-70, despite missing key players.