Despite three difficult quarters at the Drive In, Hapoel Tel Aviv continued the momentum this evening (Saturday) when it scored a fifth victory in a row in all formats after 87:105 over Bnei Herzliya in the penultimate round of the regular season in the Premier League. Danny Franco’s team went up to 4:17 and maintained a chance to finish in first place at the end of the regular season. Jacoben Brown starred with 25 points and 9 assists.
Scored for Hapoel Tel Aviv: Jacob Brown 25 and 9 assists, Jordan McRae 17, Idan Zalmanson 13, JP Tokoto 12, Bar Timur 10, Chinano Onwako 9, Tomer Ginat and Xavier Manford 6 KA, Adam Ariel 4, 3 years old.
Scored for Herzliya: Maurice Kemp 22, Julian Gamble 18, Chris Babb 15, Robert Carter 13, Quinton Hawker 10, Oded Brandvin 5, Yair Kravitch 4.
The Reds came to the match after securing the home advantage in the Eurocup knockout three days ago and knew that they were facing an opponent who must win in order to maintain a chance to finish the regular season in the top house. In the first minutes the visitors from Sharon looked great led by Maurice Kemp and went up to a quick 11:20.
From this point the home team entered the game, which developed to be rhythmic and tight with a high score. Oren Aharoni’s team was able to start with an escape during the third quarter, but towards the end Jacob Brown took control of things and led the Reds on an impressive run that continued into the fourth quarter and left no chance for the guests, who will try to get the ticket to the playoffs from the lower house.
The Reds now face the regular season finale in the Eurocup against Prometheus on Tuesday, after which they will hope to finish second and secure home games up to and including the quarter-final stage.