Israel U16 Girls Basketball Team Falls to Turkey 72-61, Faces Serbia Next

The Israeli under-16 girls basketball team lost 72-61 to Turkey on August 16, concluding the first stage of the European Championship. Despite a strong performance by Michal Abudraham, who scored 21 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, Israel finished third in Group B with one win and two losses. The Turkish team dominated much of the first half, building a double-digit lead, but Israel rallied to lead 49-48 after three quarters. However, Turkey outscored Israel 24-12 in the final quarter to secure the victory.

Israel started well, leading 21-18 after the first quarter, but struggled offensively in the second quarter, allowing Turkey to extend their lead to 35-30 at halftime. The third quarter saw a back-and-forth battle, with Israel closing the gap and taking a narrow lead. In the decisive fourth quarter, Turkey's defense stifled Israel's attack, limiting them to just 12 points while scoring 24 themselves.

Coach Daniela Reuven praised the team's effort but acknowledged the tough loss. Israel will now face Serbia in the round of 16, with the match scheduled for Tuesday and broadcast live on Sport 5. Key Israeli contributors included Rona Tzalal with 13 points and 3 assists, Ella Maoz Berda with 10 points and 5 assists, and Dafna Winterfeld with 6 points and 8 rebounds.