Israel Under-16 Basketball Team Loses to Spain, Faces Germany in Euro Championship Round of 16

The Israeli under-16 basketball team suffered a heavy defeat against Spain, losing 101-62 in their final group stage match of the European Championship on August 9, 2026. Spain dominated from the start, opening with a 30-12 lead in the first quarter and steadily increasing their advantage throughout the game. Israel struggled offensively and defensively against Spain's physical play, trailing by over 30 points by the third quarter and ultimately losing by 39 points.

Despite the loss, Israel finished second in Group C and will face Germany, who placed third in Group D, in the round of 16. The match against Germany is scheduled for a live broadcast on Sport 5. Israeli player Maor Sela opened the scoring with a three-pointer, but Spain quickly responded with a 12-0 run, forcing a timeout by Israeli coach Guy Kaplan early in the game.

Key Israeli contributors included Liam Danieli and Maor Sela, each scoring 11 points and contributing defensively, while Yanai Lachmanovich added 10 points with notable assists and steals. The Israeli team showed some resistance in the second quarter and late in the game but could not close the gap against Spain's superior defense and offense.

The Israeli team now prepares for the knockout stage, aiming to rebound against Germany in the upcoming elimination round.