BOTEVGRAD. Hapoel Tel Aviv defeated Real Madrid 76-69 in Game 3 of the EuroLeague playoffs, with standout performances from Elijah Bryant and Chris Jones, cutting the series to 2-1 and avoiding elimination after two consecutive losses in Madrid.
The game started with a solid Real Madrid performance, controlling the tempo and capitalizing on offensive efficiency to build a double-digit lead in the second quarter (33-23). Sergio Scariolo's team appeared to have control, imposing their collective game and finding offensive solutions with relative fluidity.
However, Hapoel Tel Aviv responded before halftime. They elevated their defensive intensity and found better transition options to cut the deficit to 36-34 at the break, leaving this EuroLeague playoff matchup wide open.
The turning point came after the halftime break. The squad directed by Dimitris Itoudis delivered a devastating third-quarter start, stringing together a 16-0 run that completely changed the game's script. With that momentum, Hapoel Tel Aviv moved ahead 52-40, powered by the offensive leadership of Elijah Bryant and Chris Jones, both with 19 points, and the contribution of Vasilije Micic, who added 13.
https://youtu.be/mt7QRK0Irtw?si=6mVOpT4soUK95Pb5
Real Madrid did not surrender and managed to regroup in the final stretch. With contributions from Trey Lyles (14 points and 5 rebounds), Gabriel Deck (11), and Facundo Campazzo (10), the Madrid side cut the deficit to a tight 59-58, bringing the finish down to free throws.
At that decisive moment, Hapoel Tel Aviv showed greater composure. They managed the pressure from the free-throw line and sealed the 76-69 victory, with a key contribution also from Kessler Edwards, who dominated the glass with 10 rebounds. On the Madrid side, Mario Hezonja and Andrés Feliz each added seven points in an insufficient effort to avoid defeat.
As a negative note for the home team, Antonio Blakeney finished the game with physical issues, which could impact the upcoming games in this EuroLeague series.
With this result, Hapoel Tel Aviv snaps a four-game losing streak against Real Madrid this season and keeps the series alive in these demanding EuroLeague playoffs.
Game 4 will also be played in Botevgrad, where Real Madrid will attempt to close out the series, while Hapoel will look to even it and force a fifth game.