Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv prevailed in a predictably hard-fought game Wednesday to earn a 1-0 lead over Hapoel Jerusalem in the Israeli league semi finals. The reigning champions edged the reds 89-82 at home with a strong fourth quarter, and are now one win away from the finals.
The yellows had to chase the team from the capital for most of the evening, but managed to keep the rivals at bay. And when the game was on the line, Maccabi showed resilience and courage, led by Tamir Blatt, Bonzie Colson and Jasiel Rivero. All three scored 16 points, with Blatt also dishing 11 assists.
The bad news came in the shape of a Josh Nebo injury, as the center could not return to the court in the second half and his status for the rest of the playoffs is uncertain. Maccabi are already without Wade Baldwin IV who is recovering from his own ailment, and Oded Kattash will have to make a roster decision for game 2.
The yellows will travel to Jerusalem on Friday for the second game of the series.
