Israel's Cadet Basketball Team Falls 78-75 to Germany, Faces Italy in Classification Round

Israel's cadet basketball team was narrowly defeated by Germany 78-75 in the round of 16 at the European Championship, ending their run in the main bracket. The loss means Israel will now compete in the 9th-16th place classification games to fight for survival in Division A. Their next match is scheduled for Wednesday against Italy, with live coverage on Sport Channel.

Germany started strong, quickly building a double-digit lead within three minutes. Israel managed to rally and even took the lead midway through the second quarter, but Germany closed the half ahead 45-40. The German team maintained control early in the second half, regaining a double-digit advantage they held until the final buzzer. Israel repeatedly closed the gap but could not overturn the score.

Key moments included Germany's early 11-1 run, prompting an Israeli timeout by coach Guy Kaplan. Israeli players Rotem Ben-David scored 22 points, including four three-pointers, while Yanai Lachmanovich contributed 15 points and six steals. Eytan Kedem added 14 points and 12 rebounds. Despite a late surge with a three-pointer by Ido Ziv and a clutch basket by Kedem, Israel fell short. Ben-David had a final chance to tie with a three-pointer, but his shot fell short.

The defeat relegates Israel to the classification bracket, where they will face Italy in their next game. The team aims to secure their place in Division A through these upcoming matches.