After three peaks in one week, it was only normal that the Maccabi Elite Tel Aviv will drop the intensity & concentration. That is exactly what happened but did not prevent a 95-75 win over Ironi Strauss Nahariya in the opening game of the playoff semi finals.
The visitors led 14-7 and ended the first quarter 23-21 up. Maccabi played since the fifth minute without Tal Burstein because of an injured ankle. A Sharp three pointer at the start of the second period gave Maccabi its first lead 26-25. The officiating caused a very nervous game. Sharp & coach Gershon received technical fouls and at half time Nahariya held a 50-47 lead. A third technical foul was given to Saras but Maccabi ran 12-1, led 59-51 and at the end of the third 68-60. Maccabi won the final period 27-15.
A superb game for Maceo Baston with 25 pts in 75% FG, 9 rbds, 5 blsts and 4 steals. On the other hand it was a dull night for Nikola Vujcic. In 13 minutes he did not score a point and had no rebounds.