Full Breakdown
Hapoel Jerusalem Wins EuroCup Opener Over Olimpija Ljubljana
By Drooid · · How we work
Game Summary and Key Statistics
Hapoel Jerusalem defeated Olimpija Ljubljana 75-64, improving the Israeli club’s EuroCup record to 2-0. The teams entered the contest level-headed at 18-18 after the first quarter, but Jerusalem opened a double-digit lead before halftime and extended it to 37-27. By the 30-minute mark the score was 55-47, and the Reds maintained the advantage for the remainder of the game. Scoring leaders included Dusan Miletic with 14 points, David Roddy with 12, and Kenny Lofton Jr. with 11 for Jerusalem; Ljubljana’s top performer was Noah Kirkwood, who contributed 17 points, while Anthony Cowan added 14 for the visitors.
Coach and Player Perspectives
Jerusalem head coach Sasa Obradovic described the contest as “not a high-quality game” for either side but praised his squad’s effort after a demanding travel schedule and noted that the team is still searching for optimal chemistry, especially with Lorenzo Brown making his debut. Dusan Miletic, named the game’s MVP, highlighted the team’s character in the final quarter, emphasizing reciprocal defensive pressure as a factor in the win. Devontae Cacok acknowledged moments of messiness and stressed the need for better communication and fewer mistakes, expressing confidence that the group can improve as the schedule progresses.
Broader Context for Israeli Clubs
The victory follows a mixed start for other Israeli teams in European competition. Hapoel Holon fell 99-79 to Cholet Basket in the Basketball Champions League, while Bnei Herzliya lost 86-75 to Joventut Badalona. Both defeats were attributed by coaches to defensive lapses and turnover issues, underscoring the challenges Israeli clubs face abroad.
Implications and Outlook
Jerusalem’s win positions the club favorably for its upcoming EuroCup fixtures, while the recent losses of Holon and Herzliya highlight areas for tactical refinement across Israeli squads. Coaches across the league have indicated that roster health and improved cohesion will be critical as the season advances.
Upcoming Schedule
Jerusalem’s next EuroCup game is slated for the coming Sunday, providing an early test of the team’s developing chemistry and depth.