Israel's Women's U20 Basketball Team Advances to European Championship Quarterfinals

Israel's women's under-20 basketball team achieved a significant milestone by advancing to the quarterfinals of the European Championship for the second consecutive year. On Wednesday, the team secured a commanding 96-79 victory over Hungary, guaranteeing their place among the continent's top eight teams and ensuring another year competing in the European A division. Coached by Tal Natan, the Israeli squad delivered arguably their best performance of the tournament, shooting 39 percent from beyond the arc with 11 three-pointers, distributing 19 assists, and forcing 18 turnovers against their opponents.

Key players Maya Zilbershlag and Gal Raviv led the team’s impressive showing. Zilbershlag topped the scoring with 28 points and added 10 rebounds, while Raviv contributed 24 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds, also leading the tournament in points, assists, steals, and overall efficiency rating. Israel dominated early, leading 25-16 after the first quarter and extending the margin to 52-36 at halftime, eventually pulling ahead by 22 points early in the third quarter. The remainder of the game saw Israel maintain control comfortably.

Israel is set to face Poland on Friday in the quarterfinals, with the winner advancing to the semifinals. Additional contributors included Maayan Cohen with 18 points, Ayala Oren with 11, Mai Baiko with 7, Tehila Cohen and Maya Almaliah with 3 points each, and Neta Mishar with 2 points. This victory not only highlights the team's growing strength but also secures their status among Europe's elite youth basketball teams for another year.