SHARSHERET SHAALVIM TAKES TIER I CROWN; ASHREINU HOLY BAGELS WINS TIER II
by Ilan Katz
The battle of the two most prolific coaches in the FM Home Loans IBL was taken by Sharsheret Shaalvim to win the Tier I trophy. Ashreinu Holy Bagels pushed the pace to win Tier II.
Tier I
Semifinals
Sharsheret Shaalvim 46, Lobos 36
Less than a week after upsetting top-seeded TC, Sharsheret Shaalvim wasn’t ready to have their season end against the red-hot Lobos, who were coming off an upset victory of their own over Shraga in the quarterfinals.
Lobos got off to a good start, with big man Shuli Katz scoring often inside off of dump-offs and offensive rebounds. Star guard Elisha Rudman got into early foul trouble but stayed in the game, his team realizing they needed him on the floor for any chance of getting to the championship. But Sharsheret Shaalvim, led by Coach Jordan Landes, was well-aware of Rudman’s dilemma, and made it a point to attack. This also led to foul trouble for Katz, who fouled out with five minutes remaining.
Shaalvim’s Stevie Paul, as has so often been the case this season, took over down the stretch, using his adept inside-outside skill package to produce points on each crucial possession and ensure Shaalvim a berth in the Tier I championship.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s 56, Cross River Mooseheads 50
In what must have been the loudest environment of any game to this point in the season, the Mooseheads, the only of the top-4 seeds remaining, tried to get off to a hot start. But Coach Eli Benzaquen of AR&T drew up the perfect game plan to take the Mooseheads off their game.
AR&T came out in a 3-2 zone, and it made the Mooseheads uncomfortable all night. For a team that is led by arguably the steadiest point guard in the league, Shragi Peretz, the Mooseheads gave the ball away early and often. Nethanel Assayag, a long forward for AR&T, played the point of that 3-2, and had quite a few deflections which led to said turnovers. Assayag was on fire on the offensive end as well, and he and star guard Adam Motovich combined to build a comfortable lead for the entirety of the game.
Cross River’s Yosef Rudansky came off the bench and sparked a dormant offense by hitting four 3-pointers. But Adam Motovich would not let the Mooseheads back in the game, making nearly every free throw and finishing with over half of A. Rafi and Tommy’s points. His 30 points set up a final between the two most prolific coaches in the league.
FM Home Loans Championship
Sharsheret Shaalvim 54, A. Rafi & Tommy’s 44
In yet another rowdy and energetic environment, Sharsheret Shaalvim got off to a slow start in the championship game. The offense was slow to get going but led by Noah Pomerance’s excellent two-way play, Shaalvim was able to grind back from an early deficit en route to the Tier I title.
This was a battle of two teams led by prolific coaches: Jordan Landes for Sharsheret Shaalvim, Eli Benzaquen for A. Rafi & Tommy’s. Coach Landes drew up a defensive game plan focused on shutting down AR&T star Adam Motovich, and that task was placed largely on guard Noah Pomerance, who also performed on the offensive end. His efforts netted him the championship game MVP trophy.
Sharsheret Shaalvim started the season with a loss (ironically, to the AR&T team), then won the next four. They closed the regular season with a pair of losses, but Coach Landes was able to rally his team just in time for the postseason, earning a #8 seed in Tier I. Following a one-point win over Team Piaceczna’s in Round 1, Shaalvim pulled off a huge upset with a win over #1 TC in the quarterfinals. They then put away Lobos to earn a spot in the championship.
“We really came out with a championship mindset. I couldn’t be prouder of this team,” Coach Landes told me. “We had a motto throughout the playoffs - Attack and Be Dangerous! Despite obstacles this team never gave up and showed out. It’s been a pleasure playing great basketball in the State of Israel and representing Yeshivat Sha’alvim.”
A. Rafi & Tommy’s had an unforgettable season as well. After beating Sharsheret Shaalvim in the season’s opening game, they accumulated a 4-3 regular season record, earning them the #6 seed in Tier I. After dispatching Power Mishna in the playoff’s opening round, AR&T pulled off back-to-back upsets, defeating #3 Sy Savages in the quarters then #2 Cross River Mooseheads in the semis.
“We played well in the 1st half, we just couldn’t hold it up in the 2nd half,” AR&T Coach Benzaquen told me. “They really had a well-planned-out game, defensively they played excellent, and they ended up finishing stronger than we did.”
Tier II - Championship
Ashreinu Holy Bagels 64, Rap City 39
In a title game matchup between the top two seeds, the second-seeded Ashreinu Holy Bagels shocked top-seeded Rap City in what ended up being a blowout. Holy Bagels’ Jack Levine and Dovid Oratz pushed the tempo and kept running all night. A 15-point halftime lead ended in a 25-point championship victory.
The battle of the two most prolific coaches in the FM Home Loans IBL was taken by Sharsheret Shaalvim to win the Tier I trophy. Ashreinu Holy Bagels pushed the pace to win Tier II.
Tier I
Semifinals
Sharsheret Shaalvim 46, Lobos 36
Less than a week after upsetting top-seeded TC, Sharsheret Shaalvim wasn’t ready to have their season end against the red-hot Lobos, who were coming off an upset victory of their own over Shraga in the quarterfinals.
Lobos got off to a good start, with big man Shuli Katz scoring often inside off of dump-offs and offensive rebounds. Star guard Elisha Rudman got into early foul trouble but stayed in the game, his team realizing they needed him on the floor for any chance of getting to the championship. But Sharsheret Shaalvim, led by Coach Jordan Landes, was well-aware of Rudman’s dilemma, and made it a point to attack. This also led to foul trouble for Katz, who fouled out with five minutes remaining.
Shaalvim’s Stevie Paul, as has so often been the case this season, took over down the stretch, using his adept inside-outside skill package to produce points on each crucial possession and ensure Shaalvim a berth in the Tier I championship.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s 56, Cross River Mooseheads 50
In what must have been the loudest environment of any game to this point in the season, the Mooseheads, the only of the top-4 seeds remaining, tried to get off to a hot start. But Coach Eli Benzaquen of AR&T drew up the perfect game plan to take the Mooseheads off their game.
AR&T came out in a 3-2 zone, and it made the Mooseheads uncomfortable all night. For a team that is led by arguably the steadiest point guard in the league, Shragi Peretz, the Mooseheads gave the ball away early and often. Nethanel Assayag, a long forward for AR&T, played the point of that 3-2, and had quite a few deflections which led to said turnovers. Assayag was on fire on the offensive end as well, and he and star guard Adam Motovich combined to build a comfortable lead for the entirety of the game.
Cross River’s Yosef Rudansky came off the bench and sparked a dormant offense by hitting four 3-pointers. But Adam Motovich would not let the Mooseheads back in the game, making nearly every free throw and finishing with over half of A. Rafi and Tommy’s points. His 30 points set up a final between the two most prolific coaches in the league.
FM Home Loans Championship
Sharsheret Shaalvim 54, A. Rafi & Tommy’s 44
In yet another rowdy and energetic environment, Sharsheret Shaalvim got off to a slow start in the championship game. The offense was slow to get going but led by Noah Pomerance’s excellent two-way play, Shaalvim was able to grind back from an early deficit en route to the Tier I title.
This was a battle of two teams led by prolific coaches: Jordan Landes for Sharsheret Shaalvim, Eli Benzaquen for A. Rafi & Tommy’s. Coach Landes drew up a defensive game plan focused on shutting down AR&T star Adam Motovich, and that task was placed largely on guard Noah Pomerance, who also performed on the offensive end. His efforts netted him the championship game MVP trophy.
Sharsheret Shaalvim started the season with a loss (ironically, to the AR&T team), then won the next four. They closed the regular season with a pair of losses, but Coach Landes was able to rally his team just in time for the postseason, earning a #8 seed in Tier I. Following a one-point win over Team Piaceczna’s in Round 1, Shaalvim pulled off a huge upset with a win over #1 TC in the quarterfinals. They then put away Lobos to earn a spot in the championship.
“We really came out with a championship mindset. I couldn’t be prouder of this team,” Coach Landes told me. “We had a motto throughout the playoffs - Attack and Be Dangerous! Despite obstacles this team never gave up and showed out. It’s been a pleasure playing great basketball in the State of Israel and representing Yeshivat Sha’alvim.”
A. Rafi & Tommy’s had an unforgettable season as well. After beating Sharsheret Shaalvim in the season’s opening game, they accumulated a 4-3 regular season record, earning them the #6 seed in Tier I. After dispatching Power Mishna in the playoff’s opening round, AR&T pulled off back-to-back upsets, defeating #3 Sy Savages in the quarters then #2 Cross River Mooseheads in the semis.
“We played well in the 1st half, we just couldn’t hold it up in the 2nd half,” AR&T Coach Benzaquen told me. “They really had a well-planned-out game, defensively they played excellent, and they ended up finishing stronger than we did.”
Tier II - Championship
Ashreinu Holy Bagels 64, Rap City 39
In a title game matchup between the top two seeds, the second-seeded Ashreinu Holy Bagels shocked top-seeded Rap City in what ended up being a blowout. Holy Bagels’ Jack Levine and Dovid Oratz pushed the tempo and kept running all night. A 15-point halftime lead ended in a 25-point championship victory.
March Madness: upset-minded AR&T, Lobos Crash Final Four
by Ilan Katz
Playoffs Week 2
Several upsets in Tier I brought the FM Home Loans IBL its own version of March Madness. Three of the Final Four teams are set, with the final one to be determined early this week. Rap City clinches a berth in the Tier II Championship.
Tier I
Sharsheret Shaalvim 44, Team Piaceczna’s 43
In a Tier I matchup, Team Piaceczna’s got off to a hot start, leading 23-14 at the halftime buzzer. Sharsheret Shaalvim couldn’t throw a grape in the ocean in the first half, but started heating up right out of the gate in the second. Piaceczna’s hung onto a one-point lead in the final seconds, as Shaalvim called timeout to advance to ball to halfcourt. Big man Stevie Paul caught the inbound pass and was fouled while shooting. Paul had ice in his veins, making both free throws to give Sharsheret Shaalvim the ultimate lead. A last-ditch effort from Team Piaceczna’s was halted, and Shaalvim was able to finish the comeback and avoid the upset. They will take on top-seeded TC in the final quarterfinal matchup. Noah Schiff led Team Piaceczna’s with 14 points in a losing effort.
Cross River Mooseheads 51, Gold Seals 41
The rematch from the regular season again went to the Cross River Mooseheads, albeit slightly less comfortably than the last meeting. Cross River Mooseheads used poised ball control and aggressiveness from Shragi Peretz to build a 29-22 halftime lead. The Gold Seals gave it their best shot but ultimately ran out of gas and couldn’t pull off a comeback. Gold Seals’ great season ends in the quarterfinals as the Mooseheads head to the quarters.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s 56, Sy Savages 42
This rematch went the other way, as A. Rafi & Tommy’s was able to avenge their loss to Sy Savages in the regular season and pull off the upset. The #6 seed in Tier I, AR&T got off to a surprising start against 3rd-seeded Savages, scoring the first 12 points of the game. Savages was able to get within five at halftime due to 16 first-half fouls from A. Rafi & Tommy’s and converting their free throws. But A. Rafi & Tommy’s was able to blow it open in the second half with more sound defense and smart offense. The young men from Midrash Shmuel will take on Cross River Mooseheads in a Tier I semifinal.
Lobos 58, Shraga 49
In another quarterfinal upset, the 5th-seeded Lobos carried momentum from last week’s blowout and got off to a very hot start against 4th-seeded Shraga, who earned a 1st round bye. Lobos built a double-digit first half lead, but Shraga was able to shake off the rust and tie the game at 28 headed to halftime. Lobos came out of the break aggressive, working shorthanded Shraga into foul trouble and taking advantage at the line to pull away. Max Leibowitz led Shraga with 20 points. Lobos will take on the winner of TC/Sharsheret Shaalvim in the other Tier I semifinal.
Tier II
Rap City 28, Aliya Glory 26
In the first Tier II semi, top-seeded Rap City secured its spot in the championship game. It was a fierce defensive battle in which leads were constantly traded. In the final minute, Rap City was able to steal the lead and make crucial free throws to fend off a pesky Aliya Glory team. Roy Tal led Rap City with 12 of their 28 points to go with six rebounds. Rap City will face the winner of Ashreinu Holy Bagels/Falafel Ballers in the Tier II Championship.
Playoffs Week 2
Several upsets in Tier I brought the FM Home Loans IBL its own version of March Madness. Three of the Final Four teams are set, with the final one to be determined early this week. Rap City clinches a berth in the Tier II Championship.
Tier I
Sharsheret Shaalvim 44, Team Piaceczna’s 43
In a Tier I matchup, Team Piaceczna’s got off to a hot start, leading 23-14 at the halftime buzzer. Sharsheret Shaalvim couldn’t throw a grape in the ocean in the first half, but started heating up right out of the gate in the second. Piaceczna’s hung onto a one-point lead in the final seconds, as Shaalvim called timeout to advance to ball to halfcourt. Big man Stevie Paul caught the inbound pass and was fouled while shooting. Paul had ice in his veins, making both free throws to give Sharsheret Shaalvim the ultimate lead. A last-ditch effort from Team Piaceczna’s was halted, and Shaalvim was able to finish the comeback and avoid the upset. They will take on top-seeded TC in the final quarterfinal matchup. Noah Schiff led Team Piaceczna’s with 14 points in a losing effort.
Cross River Mooseheads 51, Gold Seals 41
The rematch from the regular season again went to the Cross River Mooseheads, albeit slightly less comfortably than the last meeting. Cross River Mooseheads used poised ball control and aggressiveness from Shragi Peretz to build a 29-22 halftime lead. The Gold Seals gave it their best shot but ultimately ran out of gas and couldn’t pull off a comeback. Gold Seals’ great season ends in the quarterfinals as the Mooseheads head to the quarters.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s 56, Sy Savages 42
This rematch went the other way, as A. Rafi & Tommy’s was able to avenge their loss to Sy Savages in the regular season and pull off the upset. The #6 seed in Tier I, AR&T got off to a surprising start against 3rd-seeded Savages, scoring the first 12 points of the game. Savages was able to get within five at halftime due to 16 first-half fouls from A. Rafi & Tommy’s and converting their free throws. But A. Rafi & Tommy’s was able to blow it open in the second half with more sound defense and smart offense. The young men from Midrash Shmuel will take on Cross River Mooseheads in a Tier I semifinal.
Lobos 58, Shraga 49
In another quarterfinal upset, the 5th-seeded Lobos carried momentum from last week’s blowout and got off to a very hot start against 4th-seeded Shraga, who earned a 1st round bye. Lobos built a double-digit first half lead, but Shraga was able to shake off the rust and tie the game at 28 headed to halftime. Lobos came out of the break aggressive, working shorthanded Shraga into foul trouble and taking advantage at the line to pull away. Max Leibowitz led Shraga with 20 points. Lobos will take on the winner of TC/Sharsheret Shaalvim in the other Tier I semifinal.
Tier II
Rap City 28, Aliya Glory 26
In the first Tier II semi, top-seeded Rap City secured its spot in the championship game. It was a fierce defensive battle in which leads were constantly traded. In the final minute, Rap City was able to steal the lead and make crucial free throws to fend off a pesky Aliya Glory team. Roy Tal led Rap City with 12 of their 28 points to go with six rebounds. Rap City will face the winner of Ashreinu Holy Bagels/Falafel Ballers in the Tier II Championship.
Lobos, Gold Seals, AR&T Advance to Tier I Quarterfinals; Tier II Semis Set
by Ilan Katz
PLAYOFFS OPENING ROUND
Each of the top seeds won their Tier I matchup, with the Lobos looking like one of the league’s hottest teams. Meanwhile, Tier II featured an upset of sorts, and its semifinals are set. Free throws tended to play difference-maker for more than a couple of opening-round battles.
Tier I
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
Gold Seals 63, Pittsburgh Strong 56
These teams featured a contrast of styles, with Pittsburgh Strong relying on quickness and Gold Seals with a more balanced approach and an advantage on the interior. The teams traded leads for all of the first half, with Gold Seals claiming a 29-24 halftime lead, punctuated by a buzzer-beating jumper from Eli Gruenberg.
The teams continued to battle in the second half, with Pittsburgh Strong hanging onto a lead at the 12-minute mark. But down the stretch Gold Seals maintained a four point advantage and seemingly could not miss from the free throw line, ultimately coming up with a seven-point win.
While all six Gold Seals who logged minutes contributed in meaningful ways, they were led by the inside-outside duo of Yosef Hochner and Eli Gruenberg. Hochner was too much for Pittsburgh Strong on the interior, combining elite size with excellent footwork an touch to dominate in the post. Gruenberg wowed spectators with acrobatic finishes, flashy assists, and shooting from all levels to will his team to victory.
Gold Seals will meet Cross River Mooseheads for the second time in less than a month in a quarterfinal matchup. Pittsburgh Strong’s great season comes to an end.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s 52, Power Mishna 48
Following their heartbreaking loss in last week’s FM Home Loans Game of the Week, A. Rafi & Tommy’s had to settle for the #6 seed and face a red-hot Power Mishna squad who won each of their last two games in convincing fashion to earn a Tier I spot. Power Mishna got hot late, hitting a couple of outside shots to give them the lead inside of two minutes to play. But AR&T weren’t feeling so giving, as they took the lead play and wouldn’t relinquish it, forcing back-to-back turnovers and making free throws to seal the deal. AR&T will take on Sy Savages in a quarterfinal matchup reminiscent of their matchup earlier in the season, which the Savages took in a close one.
Lobos 69, Bad Boys 32
In a prominent display of how an emotional victory can propel a team to greater heights, Lobos, on the winning end of the potential Game of the Year last week over A. Rafi & Tommy’s, looked like a bona fide powerhouse in beating the Bad Boys. Ben Hamer had the first nine Lobos points, who didn’t allow a basket for the first 11 minutes of the game. The Lobos will look to continue this incredible momentum in next week’s quarterfinals matchup with Shraga. Shraga defeated Lobos in the season’s opening game, rather comfortably at that. But both of these teams have evolved. It should be an exciting matchup.
Tier II
Aliya Glory 42, Loketch Group 32
In what was a closer game than what the score indicated, Aliya Glory advances to the Tier II Semifinals. The game was tied 19-19 at the half, but Aliya Glory relied on interior scoring and made 13-14 free throws, while Loketch Group could not hit from the charity stripe. After starting the season 0-4, Aliya Glory has now won three of its past four games. While it was too little, too late for them to qualify for Tier I, they will be considered a legitimate threat to take down top-seeded Rap City, with a spot in the Tier II championship on the line
Falafel Ballers 51, Invaders 46
Sixth-seeded Invaders looked determined to pull off the upset, building what at one point was a 10-point lead, but Falafel Ballers wouldn’t let their season end on this day. Led by guard Emmanuel Dicker, the Ballers didn’t settle for bad shots, attacking the paint and finishing, or getting to the line and making free throws. Falafel Ballers will take on Ashreinu Holy Bagels in the Tier II semifinals. This will be a rematch of the tightly-contested matchup from the season’s opening weekend, which was won by Ashreinu Holy Bagels.
PLAYOFFS OPENING ROUND
Each of the top seeds won their Tier I matchup, with the Lobos looking like one of the league’s hottest teams. Meanwhile, Tier II featured an upset of sorts, and its semifinals are set. Free throws tended to play difference-maker for more than a couple of opening-round battles.
Tier I
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
Gold Seals 63, Pittsburgh Strong 56
These teams featured a contrast of styles, with Pittsburgh Strong relying on quickness and Gold Seals with a more balanced approach and an advantage on the interior. The teams traded leads for all of the first half, with Gold Seals claiming a 29-24 halftime lead, punctuated by a buzzer-beating jumper from Eli Gruenberg.
The teams continued to battle in the second half, with Pittsburgh Strong hanging onto a lead at the 12-minute mark. But down the stretch Gold Seals maintained a four point advantage and seemingly could not miss from the free throw line, ultimately coming up with a seven-point win.
While all six Gold Seals who logged minutes contributed in meaningful ways, they were led by the inside-outside duo of Yosef Hochner and Eli Gruenberg. Hochner was too much for Pittsburgh Strong on the interior, combining elite size with excellent footwork an touch to dominate in the post. Gruenberg wowed spectators with acrobatic finishes, flashy assists, and shooting from all levels to will his team to victory.
Gold Seals will meet Cross River Mooseheads for the second time in less than a month in a quarterfinal matchup. Pittsburgh Strong’s great season comes to an end.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s 52, Power Mishna 48
Following their heartbreaking loss in last week’s FM Home Loans Game of the Week, A. Rafi & Tommy’s had to settle for the #6 seed and face a red-hot Power Mishna squad who won each of their last two games in convincing fashion to earn a Tier I spot. Power Mishna got hot late, hitting a couple of outside shots to give them the lead inside of two minutes to play. But AR&T weren’t feeling so giving, as they took the lead play and wouldn’t relinquish it, forcing back-to-back turnovers and making free throws to seal the deal. AR&T will take on Sy Savages in a quarterfinal matchup reminiscent of their matchup earlier in the season, which the Savages took in a close one.
Lobos 69, Bad Boys 32
In a prominent display of how an emotional victory can propel a team to greater heights, Lobos, on the winning end of the potential Game of the Year last week over A. Rafi & Tommy’s, looked like a bona fide powerhouse in beating the Bad Boys. Ben Hamer had the first nine Lobos points, who didn’t allow a basket for the first 11 minutes of the game. The Lobos will look to continue this incredible momentum in next week’s quarterfinals matchup with Shraga. Shraga defeated Lobos in the season’s opening game, rather comfortably at that. But both of these teams have evolved. It should be an exciting matchup.
Tier II
Aliya Glory 42, Loketch Group 32
In what was a closer game than what the score indicated, Aliya Glory advances to the Tier II Semifinals. The game was tied 19-19 at the half, but Aliya Glory relied on interior scoring and made 13-14 free throws, while Loketch Group could not hit from the charity stripe. After starting the season 0-4, Aliya Glory has now won three of its past four games. While it was too little, too late for them to qualify for Tier I, they will be considered a legitimate threat to take down top-seeded Rap City, with a spot in the Tier II championship on the line
Falafel Ballers 51, Invaders 46
Sixth-seeded Invaders looked determined to pull off the upset, building what at one point was a 10-point lead, but Falafel Ballers wouldn’t let their season end on this day. Led by guard Emmanuel Dicker, the Ballers didn’t settle for bad shots, attacking the paint and finishing, or getting to the line and making free throws. Falafel Ballers will take on Ashreinu Holy Bagels in the Tier II semifinals. This will be a rematch of the tightly-contested matchup from the season’s opening weekend, which was won by Ashreinu Holy Bagels.
PLAYOFFS ARE SET! DRAMATIC FINISH TO REGULAR SEASON
by Ilan Katz
The battle for top seed in Tier I came down to the final game of the regular season, when two first-place teams hashed it out. Lobos and A. Rafi & Tommy's put on perhaps the game of the year which came down to a buzzer-beater. And one team won its final three games to sneak into Tier I.
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
Lobos 54, A. Rafi & Tommy’s 53 (OT)
The final Game of the Week of the regular season just may turn out to be dubbed the game of the year. This game had all the drama one could ask for, and then some.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s used its energy and 15 first half points from Adam Motovich to build a lead as large as 10, but Lobos erased that and took its first lead early in the second half.
Though he had help, the star in this one was Lobos guard Elisha Rudman. Never one to seek the spotlight, Rudman was excellent in every possible regard. Always sought out his teammates for open looks, but would take advantage if he saw a good look himself. He was all over the glass on both ends, and effectively shut down Motovich in the second half with great defense.
The drama in the final minute was so intense that a detailed summary feels necessary.
With 33 seconds remaining in regulation, Moche Levy had a key steal and layup to give AR&T
a four-point lead. With 14 seconds to go, Yitzy Kessler hit a 3 for his first points off the bench, filling in for big man Shuli Katz who had fouled out. After AR&T missed the front end of a 1-and-1, Lobos called timeout, then Chaim Hirsch had a clutch bucket while getting fouled and made the free throw to give Lobos a late two-point lead. AR&T then turned it over but Lobos couldn’t capitalize after being fouled, and Adam Motovich was fouled after grabbing the rebound with six seconds left. Motovich made the clutch free throws, but a lane violation was called after the second, so AR&T still trailed by one. Hirsch then made one of two free throws, and Nethanel Assayag of AR&T was fouled on the drive by Hirsch, who fouled out on the play, meaning Lobos would have to close shorthanded as they were down to four active players. Assayag coolly knocked down both to send the game to overtime.
In the extra period, AR&T was unable to take advantage of the “powerplay” to pull away. Kessler came up clutch again, making a late 3, and after Motovich made two more clutch free throws to regain the lead, the stage was set for Rudman to shine. With under three seconds to play, Rudman caught the ball on the perimeter, waited for Motovich to fly by, took two dribbles to his left, pump-faked to let another defender soar past him, and knocked down a shot at the buzzer to win it.
Lobos earn the #5 Tier I seed and will take on Bad Boys next weekend. A. Rafi & Tommy’s settle at #6, and will look to shake off this loss against red-hot Power Mishna in the opening round of Tier I.
TC 56, Gold Seals 42
Gold Seals’ losing streak continued as they were unable to get anything going offensively against TC’s stingy defense. On offense, TC found high-percentage shots inside the arc, cruising to an easy victory, securing the #1 overall seed along the way with Sy Savages’ loss to Cross River Mooseheads. TC will earn a first-round bye in Tier I, while Gold Seals will battle Pittsburgh Strong in the same tier next weekend.
Team Piaceczna’s 48, Rap City 42
Team Piaceczna’s came in riding a hot streak, and they need it to continue for any chance at a Tier I playoff berth. It did, and the young men from Yeshivat Torah V’Avodah went to work early and often, staving off a late Rap City push to hang on for the win. Rap City will have to settle as the top seed in Tier II.
Team Piaceczna’s 46, Pittsburgh Strong 41
In their 5th game in three weeks, Team Piaceczna’s gritted out a win by hitting key free throws down the stretch to secure a spot in Tier I. They won three of those five, including two must-wins this weekend. Team Piaceczna’s will face Sharsheret Shaalvim in a first-round Tier I matchup, who defeated them in their first game of the season. Pittsburgh Strong will take on Gold Seals.
Cross River Mooseheads 52, Sy Savages 28
The Mooseheads have quietly put together the most impressive resume in the league, as they finish the regular season with a single loss, to fellow one-loss team TC (by two points, in overtime). They dismantled what was previously regarded as the league’s hottest team, holding them to their season-low scoring total. Each of these teams will earn a Tier I first-round bye, with Cross River earning the #2 overall seed, Sy Savages #3.
Aliyah Glory 52, Ashreinu Holy Bagels 41
The role of spoiler was played by Aliyah Glory, as they utilized late season additions to stun the Holy Bagels and doom them to Tier II. Ashreinu will have a bye as the #2 seed in Tier II, while Aliyah Glory will take on The Loketch Group in a first round matchup.
The battle for top seed in Tier I came down to the final game of the regular season, when two first-place teams hashed it out. Lobos and A. Rafi & Tommy's put on perhaps the game of the year which came down to a buzzer-beater. And one team won its final three games to sneak into Tier I.
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
Lobos 54, A. Rafi & Tommy’s 53 (OT)
The final Game of the Week of the regular season just may turn out to be dubbed the game of the year. This game had all the drama one could ask for, and then some.
A. Rafi & Tommy’s used its energy and 15 first half points from Adam Motovich to build a lead as large as 10, but Lobos erased that and took its first lead early in the second half.
Though he had help, the star in this one was Lobos guard Elisha Rudman. Never one to seek the spotlight, Rudman was excellent in every possible regard. Always sought out his teammates for open looks, but would take advantage if he saw a good look himself. He was all over the glass on both ends, and effectively shut down Motovich in the second half with great defense.
The drama in the final minute was so intense that a detailed summary feels necessary.
With 33 seconds remaining in regulation, Moche Levy had a key steal and layup to give AR&T
a four-point lead. With 14 seconds to go, Yitzy Kessler hit a 3 for his first points off the bench, filling in for big man Shuli Katz who had fouled out. After AR&T missed the front end of a 1-and-1, Lobos called timeout, then Chaim Hirsch had a clutch bucket while getting fouled and made the free throw to give Lobos a late two-point lead. AR&T then turned it over but Lobos couldn’t capitalize after being fouled, and Adam Motovich was fouled after grabbing the rebound with six seconds left. Motovich made the clutch free throws, but a lane violation was called after the second, so AR&T still trailed by one. Hirsch then made one of two free throws, and Nethanel Assayag of AR&T was fouled on the drive by Hirsch, who fouled out on the play, meaning Lobos would have to close shorthanded as they were down to four active players. Assayag coolly knocked down both to send the game to overtime.
In the extra period, AR&T was unable to take advantage of the “powerplay” to pull away. Kessler came up clutch again, making a late 3, and after Motovich made two more clutch free throws to regain the lead, the stage was set for Rudman to shine. With under three seconds to play, Rudman caught the ball on the perimeter, waited for Motovich to fly by, took two dribbles to his left, pump-faked to let another defender soar past him, and knocked down a shot at the buzzer to win it.
Lobos earn the #5 Tier I seed and will take on Bad Boys next weekend. A. Rafi & Tommy’s settle at #6, and will look to shake off this loss against red-hot Power Mishna in the opening round of Tier I.
TC 56, Gold Seals 42
Gold Seals’ losing streak continued as they were unable to get anything going offensively against TC’s stingy defense. On offense, TC found high-percentage shots inside the arc, cruising to an easy victory, securing the #1 overall seed along the way with Sy Savages’ loss to Cross River Mooseheads. TC will earn a first-round bye in Tier I, while Gold Seals will battle Pittsburgh Strong in the same tier next weekend.
Team Piaceczna’s 48, Rap City 42
Team Piaceczna’s came in riding a hot streak, and they need it to continue for any chance at a Tier I playoff berth. It did, and the young men from Yeshivat Torah V’Avodah went to work early and often, staving off a late Rap City push to hang on for the win. Rap City will have to settle as the top seed in Tier II.
Team Piaceczna’s 46, Pittsburgh Strong 41
In their 5th game in three weeks, Team Piaceczna’s gritted out a win by hitting key free throws down the stretch to secure a spot in Tier I. They won three of those five, including two must-wins this weekend. Team Piaceczna’s will face Sharsheret Shaalvim in a first-round Tier I matchup, who defeated them in their first game of the season. Pittsburgh Strong will take on Gold Seals.
Cross River Mooseheads 52, Sy Savages 28
The Mooseheads have quietly put together the most impressive resume in the league, as they finish the regular season with a single loss, to fellow one-loss team TC (by two points, in overtime). They dismantled what was previously regarded as the league’s hottest team, holding them to their season-low scoring total. Each of these teams will earn a Tier I first-round bye, with Cross River earning the #2 overall seed, Sy Savages #3.
Aliyah Glory 52, Ashreinu Holy Bagels 41
The role of spoiler was played by Aliyah Glory, as they utilized late season additions to stun the Holy Bagels and doom them to Tier II. Ashreinu will have a bye as the #2 seed in Tier II, while Aliyah Glory will take on The Loketch Group in a first round matchup.
Cross River Mooseheads Stay Hot, Power Mishna Makes Late Playoff Push
Week 8 Recap
The Cross River Mooseheads turned up the heat in our Game of the Week, joining idle Sy Savages and TC for a three-way tie in first place with one week left in the regular season. Meanwhile, Power Mishna used a double-dose of opportunities to make an unlikely push into Tier I contention.
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
Cross River Mooseheads 50, Gold Seals 35
The Mooseheads’ second appearance in the Game of the Week went much better than the first. In the first ever FM Home Loans game of the week (broadcast on our Facebook page), the Mooseheads blew a second half lead to rival TC, losing by a measly two points in overtime in what remains their only blemish on the season. Week 8’s win over Gold Seals continued their winning ways.
This game was very much a game of runs. Cross River opened the game with five straight points from point guard Shragi Peretz, but the Gold Seals countered with an 8-0 run. Following a timeout, the Mooseheads closed the half on a dominant 23-2 run, including four 3-pointers from 6th man Simcha Menlo. The Gold Seals’ dynamic duo of Eli Gruenberg and Yoni Bobker couldn’t get thing going, as the Gold Seals missed all 11 3-pointers attempted en route to a 32-15 halftime deficit.
Whatever the Gold Seals discussed at halftime seemed to be effective immediately, as they started the second half on a 14-2 run of their own, cutting the deficit to just five. But that would be as close as they’d get, as a 10-0 Cross River run essentially put the game on ice.
The Mooseheads used incredible efficiency from the three-headed monster of Menlo, Chaim Krieger, and Peretz, who had 22, 15, and 11 points, respectively, making up 96% of the team’s scoring. Peretz has been solid all season, and chipped in nine rebounds, three assists, and three steals in an all-around effort. The Mooseheads will likely earn a first round bye in Tier I.
Gruenberg has led the Gold Seals in scoring all year, and today was no exception, as he led them with 13 points. Captain Yoni Bobker is the ultimate glue guy, and chipped in eight rebounds and five steals. The Gold Seals have concluded their regular season and await their Tier I opponent.
A. Rafi and Tommy’s 48, Team Piacecna’s 33
Adam Motovich exploded for 30 points as A. Rafi and Tommy’s won their third consecutive game. Team Piaceczna’s fought as hard as they could, and they are battling for one of the final Tier I playoff spots, but they couldn’t keep Izzy Miller off the glass. AR&T still has a chance at a first round bye, depending on the results of the upcoming final weekend of the regular season.
Loketch Group 42, Invaders 40
The Loketch Group started off the game red-hot, jumping out to a 26-6 first half lead. But the Invaders intruded on the Loketch Group’s comfort, going on a 30-11 run of their own, but coming up just short. Loketch Group keeps its Tier I hopes alive, with Invaders likely relegated to Tier II.
Shraga 59, Bad Boys 40
It was a tough weekend for Bad Boys, as this was the first of their two losses. Shraga showed little mercy as they took out their frustration from last week’s performance on Zak Lenik and his Boys. Shraga ends their season in position to earn a first round bye, contingent on next week’s results.
Power Mishna 50, Bad Boys 39
Bad Boys entered the weekend one game above .500, and they leave it one game below, ending their regular season. While they will still have a shot at qualifying for Tier I, Power Mishna needed wins in the worst way, which they got by containing Bad Boys’ guards and scoring in transition.
Power Mishna 47, Falafel Ballers 38
The two huge wins for Power Mishna snapped a four game losing streak and has them right on the bubble. Whether they qualify for Tier I of the playoffs will depend on other teams’ results next week, plus a whole lot of complex tiebreakers.
Stay tuned!
The Cross River Mooseheads turned up the heat in our Game of the Week, joining idle Sy Savages and TC for a three-way tie in first place with one week left in the regular season. Meanwhile, Power Mishna used a double-dose of opportunities to make an unlikely push into Tier I contention.
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
Cross River Mooseheads 50, Gold Seals 35
The Mooseheads’ second appearance in the Game of the Week went much better than the first. In the first ever FM Home Loans game of the week (broadcast on our Facebook page), the Mooseheads blew a second half lead to rival TC, losing by a measly two points in overtime in what remains their only blemish on the season. Week 8’s win over Gold Seals continued their winning ways.
This game was very much a game of runs. Cross River opened the game with five straight points from point guard Shragi Peretz, but the Gold Seals countered with an 8-0 run. Following a timeout, the Mooseheads closed the half on a dominant 23-2 run, including four 3-pointers from 6th man Simcha Menlo. The Gold Seals’ dynamic duo of Eli Gruenberg and Yoni Bobker couldn’t get thing going, as the Gold Seals missed all 11 3-pointers attempted en route to a 32-15 halftime deficit.
Whatever the Gold Seals discussed at halftime seemed to be effective immediately, as they started the second half on a 14-2 run of their own, cutting the deficit to just five. But that would be as close as they’d get, as a 10-0 Cross River run essentially put the game on ice.
The Mooseheads used incredible efficiency from the three-headed monster of Menlo, Chaim Krieger, and Peretz, who had 22, 15, and 11 points, respectively, making up 96% of the team’s scoring. Peretz has been solid all season, and chipped in nine rebounds, three assists, and three steals in an all-around effort. The Mooseheads will likely earn a first round bye in Tier I.
Gruenberg has led the Gold Seals in scoring all year, and today was no exception, as he led them with 13 points. Captain Yoni Bobker is the ultimate glue guy, and chipped in eight rebounds and five steals. The Gold Seals have concluded their regular season and await their Tier I opponent.
A. Rafi and Tommy’s 48, Team Piacecna’s 33
Adam Motovich exploded for 30 points as A. Rafi and Tommy’s won their third consecutive game. Team Piaceczna’s fought as hard as they could, and they are battling for one of the final Tier I playoff spots, but they couldn’t keep Izzy Miller off the glass. AR&T still has a chance at a first round bye, depending on the results of the upcoming final weekend of the regular season.
Loketch Group 42, Invaders 40
The Loketch Group started off the game red-hot, jumping out to a 26-6 first half lead. But the Invaders intruded on the Loketch Group’s comfort, going on a 30-11 run of their own, but coming up just short. Loketch Group keeps its Tier I hopes alive, with Invaders likely relegated to Tier II.
Shraga 59, Bad Boys 40
It was a tough weekend for Bad Boys, as this was the first of their two losses. Shraga showed little mercy as they took out their frustration from last week’s performance on Zak Lenik and his Boys. Shraga ends their season in position to earn a first round bye, contingent on next week’s results.
Power Mishna 50, Bad Boys 39
Bad Boys entered the weekend one game above .500, and they leave it one game below, ending their regular season. While they will still have a shot at qualifying for Tier I, Power Mishna needed wins in the worst way, which they got by containing Bad Boys’ guards and scoring in transition.
Power Mishna 47, Falafel Ballers 38
The two huge wins for Power Mishna snapped a four game losing streak and has them right on the bubble. Whether they qualify for Tier I of the playoffs will depend on other teams’ results next week, plus a whole lot of complex tiebreakers.
Stay tuned!
TC and Sy Savages Win Top-Tier Matchups to Claim First Place
Week 7 Recap
The four first-place teams matched up with one another, cutting the number of teams with the top record in half. Elsewhere, Cross River Mooseheads continue to look elite, while Bad Boys looked to take advantage of two games on the weekend.
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
TC 54, Shraga 45
If the beginning was foreshadowing of what was to come, things weren’t looking good for TC. after winning the tip, they turned it over mere seconds later. Then Shraga guard Max Leibowitz hit a signature pull-up 3, followed by another turnover by TC on their second possession. As the players got more comfortable, TC was able to run great offense and neutralize Shraga’s star to bounce back from last week’s first defeat on the season and win.
Shraga used a 2-3 zone, possibly as a result of seeing how Sy Savages stymied TC in last week’s contest. But this time TC adjusted flawlessly. Point guard Tai Gerszberg did an excellent job running the show. A common sight was him finding either one of the Buchbinder twins in the high post, who just as often found a cutter for an easy layup. TC also dominated on the offensive glass, despite missing each of its top two big men (in addition to starting guard Zevi Gralla). Shraga themselves were without two key players, as Dovie Marcus and Josh Dukas (who had 29 points combined last week) missed this one.
On the other end, Max Leibowitz could never completely get into a rhythm, mostly due to excellent shutdown defense from Gerszberg. TC did an excellent job as a whole at getting back in transition, preventing those easy looks that Shraga usually finds.
Rap City 63, Invaders 48
It’s been a tough stretch for Rap City, who came in having lost three straight, but they bounced back in a big way with this 15-point victory. Nochum Paltiel was huge for the young men from Rap, as he finished with 15 points and 15 rebounds. Roy Tal led all scorers with 21 points, including five made 3s. Invaders couldn’t build off their dramatic Week 6 win, unable to cool down Rap City’s hot shooting.
Cross River Mooseheads 61, Sharsheret Shaalvim 54
The Mooseheads had to spend the final ten minutes shorthanded, as one of their five players fouled out with no reserves available, but they were able to fend off a late Sharsheret push. Shaalvim loses their second consecutive close game against top competition. The Mooseheads are now 4-1, with their lone defeat coming at the hands of rival TC by two, in overtime.
Sy Savages 45, Gold Seals 32
Sy Savages clearly get their name from their defense, as it stuns a first-place team for the second consecutive week. They started the game on a 10-0 run and Gold Seals was unable to consistently break through the Savages trademark 2-3 zone. Savages made clutch free throws down the stretch to thwart any hope for a Gold Seals comeback.
Lobos 63, Power Mishna 48
The matchup of two middling teams coming off losses was controlled from start to finish by the Lobos, who used a balanced scoring attack to get back in the win column. All five Lobos players had between 8 and 16 points (Ben Hamer had 16, Elisha Rudman and Sholi Katz had 15 apiece). Power Mishna generally has great length, but couldn’t use it to keep the Lobos off the glass.
Bad Boys 61, Team Piaceczna’s 48
Zak Lenik made his season debut for Bad Boys, and that could be a turning point in the season. The veteran FM Home Loans IBL point guard was steady as it gets, and weathered Bad Boys through what was a ferocious Team Piaceczna’s comeback attempt. After building a 48-29 second half lead, Bad Boys started to falter to Piaceczna’s press, who went on a 16-3 run to come to within six. But Lenik and co. were able to hit shots at the line and take care of the ball in the final minutes to secure the win. This was Bad Boy’s first result in their five games that was decided by more than seven points.
Team Piaceczna’s 55, Loketch Group 40
It was double-duty for Team Piaceczna’s as they took out their frustration from the loss to Bad Boys to hand Loketch Group a tough defeat. Piaceczna’s was locked in on the defensive end and pushed the tempo for a win which has potential to be a turning point in their season. Loketch Group beat Bad Boys earlier in the season, so the triangle of victory between these three teams (Team Piaceczna’s, Loketch Group, and Bad Boys) is complete.
The four first-place teams matched up with one another, cutting the number of teams with the top record in half. Elsewhere, Cross River Mooseheads continue to look elite, while Bad Boys looked to take advantage of two games on the weekend.
FM Home Loans Game of the Week
TC 54, Shraga 45
If the beginning was foreshadowing of what was to come, things weren’t looking good for TC. after winning the tip, they turned it over mere seconds later. Then Shraga guard Max Leibowitz hit a signature pull-up 3, followed by another turnover by TC on their second possession. As the players got more comfortable, TC was able to run great offense and neutralize Shraga’s star to bounce back from last week’s first defeat on the season and win.
Shraga used a 2-3 zone, possibly as a result of seeing how Sy Savages stymied TC in last week’s contest. But this time TC adjusted flawlessly. Point guard Tai Gerszberg did an excellent job running the show. A common sight was him finding either one of the Buchbinder twins in the high post, who just as often found a cutter for an easy layup. TC also dominated on the offensive glass, despite missing each of its top two big men (in addition to starting guard Zevi Gralla). Shraga themselves were without two key players, as Dovie Marcus and Josh Dukas (who had 29 points combined last week) missed this one.
On the other end, Max Leibowitz could never completely get into a rhythm, mostly due to excellent shutdown defense from Gerszberg. TC did an excellent job as a whole at getting back in transition, preventing those easy looks that Shraga usually finds.
Rap City 63, Invaders 48
It’s been a tough stretch for Rap City, who came in having lost three straight, but they bounced back in a big way with this 15-point victory. Nochum Paltiel was huge for the young men from Rap, as he finished with 15 points and 15 rebounds. Roy Tal led all scorers with 21 points, including five made 3s. Invaders couldn’t build off their dramatic Week 6 win, unable to cool down Rap City’s hot shooting.
Cross River Mooseheads 61, Sharsheret Shaalvim 54
The Mooseheads had to spend the final ten minutes shorthanded, as one of their five players fouled out with no reserves available, but they were able to fend off a late Sharsheret push. Shaalvim loses their second consecutive close game against top competition. The Mooseheads are now 4-1, with their lone defeat coming at the hands of rival TC by two, in overtime.
Sy Savages 45, Gold Seals 32
Sy Savages clearly get their name from their defense, as it stuns a first-place team for the second consecutive week. They started the game on a 10-0 run and Gold Seals was unable to consistently break through the Savages trademark 2-3 zone. Savages made clutch free throws down the stretch to thwart any hope for a Gold Seals comeback.
Lobos 63, Power Mishna 48
The matchup of two middling teams coming off losses was controlled from start to finish by the Lobos, who used a balanced scoring attack to get back in the win column. All five Lobos players had between 8 and 16 points (Ben Hamer had 16, Elisha Rudman and Sholi Katz had 15 apiece). Power Mishna generally has great length, but couldn’t use it to keep the Lobos off the glass.
Bad Boys 61, Team Piaceczna’s 48
Zak Lenik made his season debut for Bad Boys, and that could be a turning point in the season. The veteran FM Home Loans IBL point guard was steady as it gets, and weathered Bad Boys through what was a ferocious Team Piaceczna’s comeback attempt. After building a 48-29 second half lead, Bad Boys started to falter to Piaceczna’s press, who went on a 16-3 run to come to within six. But Lenik and co. were able to hit shots at the line and take care of the ball in the final minutes to secure the win. This was Bad Boy’s first result in their five games that was decided by more than seven points.
Team Piaceczna’s 55, Loketch Group 40
It was double-duty for Team Piaceczna’s as they took out their frustration from the loss to Bad Boys to hand Loketch Group a tough defeat. Piaceczna’s was locked in on the defensive end and pushed the tempo for a win which has potential to be a turning point in their season. Loketch Group beat Bad Boys earlier in the season, so the triangle of victory between these three teams (Team Piaceczna’s, Loketch Group, and Bad Boys) is complete.
Race for Top Spot Heats Up; League Parity Continues to Even Out
Week 6’s results leaves four-way tie for first in FM Home Loans IBL (Sy Savages, TC, Gold Seals, Shraga), but the list of viable contenders extends much further with many impressive showings. Meanwhile, the final winless team entered the win column in dramatic fashion.
Game of the Week
Shraga 60, Sharsheret Shaalvim 52
The FM Home Loans Game of the Week lived up to the hype, as we had a fast-paced affair from the opening tip. Shraga star Max Leibowitz didn’t disappoint, leading all scorers with 22 points, scoring in a variety of ways. He had ample help though, with Dovie Marcus chipping in 15 and Josh Dukas adding 14, including some clutch free throws to put the game on ice.
Shaalvim struggled to take advantage of their tremendous size, with both Stevie Paul and Moshe Bennett saddled with foul trouble all game long. Captain Jake Greenberg had a quiet game, while guard Noah Pomerance carried the scoring from the backcourt.
Despite the result, each team proved in this match that it has serious potential make a deep run into the postseason.
Sy Savages 48, TC 43
Sy Savages came off their bye full of energy and shocked previously undefeated TC. The savages came out in a 2-3 zone, which proved to be a brilliant strategy to contain TC’s quick guards. TC wouldn’t go down without a fight, however. After trailing 26-18 at the half, TC started the 2nd half on an 11-0 run to take a three point lead. But Sy Savages recovered after a timeout and fought back to take the lead in the final minutes. Alan Franco hit five 3s in the Savages’ previous game but was shut down most of this contest via excellent man-to-man defense from TC’s Zevi Gralla. With under two minutes to play, Franco caught the TC defense on a switch and buried a dagger 3-pointer from the top of the arc to essentially seal the win. Savages enter a four-way tie atop the standings with the victory.
A. Rafi and Tommy’s 50, Power Mishna 45
Power Mishna got out to a 10-2 lead and were looking great on both ends, forcing A. Rafi and Tommy’s to call a timeout to regroup. Whatever was said in that huddle clearly worked, as they went on a 15-0 run and led 25-21 at halftime. Power Mishna focused on taking away Adam Motovich’s shooting prowess, but AR&T’s star guard still managed to affect the game and will his team to a five-point victory.
Cross River Mooseheads 42, Lobos 37
Cross River relied on defense and rebounding to bounce back from last week’s close defeat to rival TC. The Mooseheads keyed in on stopping Lobos leading scorer Elisha Rudman, preventing him from penetrating inside. Mooseheads big man Ari Eisenberger continues to be a problem for opposing teams on both ends of the glass. Opponents need to find a way to keep him away from missed shots to have any sort of chance at defeating the Mooseheads.
Gold Seals 74, Rap City 40
Rap City hung tough early on, countering a 10-0 Gold Seals start with a 10-0 run of their own, but Gold Seals’ elite talent was too much. Gold Seals’ guard Eli Gruenberg nearly outscored the opposition by himself, notching 35 points. Their 74 points are the most any team has scored this season.
Invaders 45, Falafel Ballers 42
Invaders used excellent defense to pull out their first victory of the season. Falafel Ballers were coming off a dramatic, come-from-behind victory last week, but couldn’t use the momentum to build on their winning ways despite a great effort from guard Emanuel Dicker.
Bad Boys 56, Ashreinu Holy Bagels 49
Ben Greene and the rest of the Bad Boys seemingly couldn’t miss from deep, and Ashreinu’s tough luck continues. The Holy Bagels clearly have the talent but would love to string some wins together as we inch closer towards the postseason. Bad Boys rebound in a big way from their aforementioned collapse to Falafel Ballers last week.
Pittsburgh Strong 47, Aliyah Glory 29
The men from Yeshivat Hakotel lived up to their team name with a strong 2nd half performance to put away Aliyah Glory. AG couldn’t build off their dramatic victory last week, with Pittsburgh Strong’s fast pace proving too much. Pittsburgh Strong has won three of its past four after dropping its first two.
Game of the Week
Shraga 60, Sharsheret Shaalvim 52
The FM Home Loans Game of the Week lived up to the hype, as we had a fast-paced affair from the opening tip. Shraga star Max Leibowitz didn’t disappoint, leading all scorers with 22 points, scoring in a variety of ways. He had ample help though, with Dovie Marcus chipping in 15 and Josh Dukas adding 14, including some clutch free throws to put the game on ice.
Shaalvim struggled to take advantage of their tremendous size, with both Stevie Paul and Moshe Bennett saddled with foul trouble all game long. Captain Jake Greenberg had a quiet game, while guard Noah Pomerance carried the scoring from the backcourt.
Despite the result, each team proved in this match that it has serious potential make a deep run into the postseason.
Sy Savages 48, TC 43
Sy Savages came off their bye full of energy and shocked previously undefeated TC. The savages came out in a 2-3 zone, which proved to be a brilliant strategy to contain TC’s quick guards. TC wouldn’t go down without a fight, however. After trailing 26-18 at the half, TC started the 2nd half on an 11-0 run to take a three point lead. But Sy Savages recovered after a timeout and fought back to take the lead in the final minutes. Alan Franco hit five 3s in the Savages’ previous game but was shut down most of this contest via excellent man-to-man defense from TC’s Zevi Gralla. With under two minutes to play, Franco caught the TC defense on a switch and buried a dagger 3-pointer from the top of the arc to essentially seal the win. Savages enter a four-way tie atop the standings with the victory.
A. Rafi and Tommy’s 50, Power Mishna 45
Power Mishna got out to a 10-2 lead and were looking great on both ends, forcing A. Rafi and Tommy’s to call a timeout to regroup. Whatever was said in that huddle clearly worked, as they went on a 15-0 run and led 25-21 at halftime. Power Mishna focused on taking away Adam Motovich’s shooting prowess, but AR&T’s star guard still managed to affect the game and will his team to a five-point victory.
Cross River Mooseheads 42, Lobos 37
Cross River relied on defense and rebounding to bounce back from last week’s close defeat to rival TC. The Mooseheads keyed in on stopping Lobos leading scorer Elisha Rudman, preventing him from penetrating inside. Mooseheads big man Ari Eisenberger continues to be a problem for opposing teams on both ends of the glass. Opponents need to find a way to keep him away from missed shots to have any sort of chance at defeating the Mooseheads.
Gold Seals 74, Rap City 40
Rap City hung tough early on, countering a 10-0 Gold Seals start with a 10-0 run of their own, but Gold Seals’ elite talent was too much. Gold Seals’ guard Eli Gruenberg nearly outscored the opposition by himself, notching 35 points. Their 74 points are the most any team has scored this season.
Invaders 45, Falafel Ballers 42
Invaders used excellent defense to pull out their first victory of the season. Falafel Ballers were coming off a dramatic, come-from-behind victory last week, but couldn’t use the momentum to build on their winning ways despite a great effort from guard Emanuel Dicker.
Bad Boys 56, Ashreinu Holy Bagels 49
Ben Greene and the rest of the Bad Boys seemingly couldn’t miss from deep, and Ashreinu’s tough luck continues. The Holy Bagels clearly have the talent but would love to string some wins together as we inch closer towards the postseason. Bad Boys rebound in a big way from their aforementioned collapse to Falafel Ballers last week.
Pittsburgh Strong 47, Aliyah Glory 29
The men from Yeshivat Hakotel lived up to their team name with a strong 2nd half performance to put away Aliyah Glory. AG couldn’t build off their dramatic victory last week, with Pittsburgh Strong’s fast pace proving too much. Pittsburgh Strong has won three of its past four after dropping its first two.
TC Remains Unblemished; Shraga, Sharsheret Shaalvim, and Seals Continue to Strike Gold
Toras Chaim won the highly-anticipated matchup of undefeated squads in an epic comeback overtime victory. Several other teams are nipping at their heels following convincing victories, and one team is trending sky-high following a slow start to the season.
Toras Chaim 57, Cross River Mooseheads 55 (OT)
The game billed as the early favorite for “Game of the Year” did not disappoint, with Toras Chaim edging out rival Cross River Mooseheads, 57-55 in overtime.
Simcha Menlo of the Mooseheads led all scorers with 21 points, but his 3-point attempt for the win just rimmed out at the OT buzzer.
TC captain Shmuely Sauer did not score in the first half, but came out red-hot in the second, finishing with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Sauer did not miss a field goal attempt until his last-second heave from 3 fell just short at the end of regulation, ensuring the game went to overtime.
After trailing by seven at halftime, and as many as 12 in the second half, TC banked on strong defense and Sauer’s and Mordy Weissman’s aggressiveness to battle back. Weissman came up particularly clutch, making the tying bucket in regulation prior to what ended up as the winning layup in overtime. Weissman finished with 14 points.
TC is now the lone undefeated team, with Cross River joining a conglomerate of 1-loss teams.
Aliyah Glory 41, Invaders 40
On the other end of the spectrum, Aliyah Glory broke into the win column with a dramatic finish vs the Invaders. With the score tied at 40 and 3 seconds left, Aliyah Glory captain Ezra Guo inbounded the ball at half court to their star player Zimi Li. Zimi took 2 dribbles and shot the ball. The buzzer sounded, as did the refs whistle, Zimi was fouled. Zimi walked up to the free throw line and calmly hit his first free throw to give Aliyah Glory their first win of the season.
Falafel Ballers 52, Bad Boys 45
Bad Boys led 44-29 in the second half, but foul trouble and a lack of depth aided Falafel Ballers in an epic comeback. The Ballers closed the game on a 23-1 run, which included Bad Boys forward Dovi Adler fouling out with four minutes remaining and the Bad Boys clinging to a 45-40 lead, forcing the Bad Boys to finish the game shorthanded.
Shraga 66, Power Mishna 56
The final score is not fully indicative of how close this one was, with Power Mishna keeping the game within arm’s reach until the final minute. Shraga looks like a force, with the inside-outside combination of Max Leibowitz and Dov Marcus, and they are always looking to push the pace. Their 62 points per game leads the FM Home Loans IBL.
Team Piaceczna’s 55, Ashreinu Holy Bagels 45
Piaceczna’s got hot and stayed hot from outside, and hit clutch free throws down the stretch to secure their first victory of the season, against a very tough Ashreinu Holy Bagels team. Piaceczna’s has very good athleticism and are balanced between their frontcourt and backcourt. They are a team to keep an eye on following a slow start to the season.
Sharsheret Shaalvim 52, Pittsburgh Strong 28
Shaalvim got out to a 10-point halftime lead, and crushed Pittsburgh strong in the second half, outscoring their opponent 26-12 after the break. Sharsheret Shaalvim continues to look like a top-tier team and one of the favorites to take the FM Home Loans crown. Pittsburgh Strong is no slouch themselves and should be in a position to make the playoffs and perhaps make a run.
Gold Seals 52, Loketch Group 31
Gold Seals score from all over, combining long-range proficiency with dominance on the glass to cruise to an easy win. The Seals’ only loss to date was a single-digit defeat vs. undefeated TC, and are in the upper-tier when it comes to the league’s best.
Toras Chaim 57, Cross River Mooseheads 55 (OT)
The game billed as the early favorite for “Game of the Year” did not disappoint, with Toras Chaim edging out rival Cross River Mooseheads, 57-55 in overtime.
Simcha Menlo of the Mooseheads led all scorers with 21 points, but his 3-point attempt for the win just rimmed out at the OT buzzer.
TC captain Shmuely Sauer did not score in the first half, but came out red-hot in the second, finishing with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Sauer did not miss a field goal attempt until his last-second heave from 3 fell just short at the end of regulation, ensuring the game went to overtime.
After trailing by seven at halftime, and as many as 12 in the second half, TC banked on strong defense and Sauer’s and Mordy Weissman’s aggressiveness to battle back. Weissman came up particularly clutch, making the tying bucket in regulation prior to what ended up as the winning layup in overtime. Weissman finished with 14 points.
TC is now the lone undefeated team, with Cross River joining a conglomerate of 1-loss teams.
Aliyah Glory 41, Invaders 40
On the other end of the spectrum, Aliyah Glory broke into the win column with a dramatic finish vs the Invaders. With the score tied at 40 and 3 seconds left, Aliyah Glory captain Ezra Guo inbounded the ball at half court to their star player Zimi Li. Zimi took 2 dribbles and shot the ball. The buzzer sounded, as did the refs whistle, Zimi was fouled. Zimi walked up to the free throw line and calmly hit his first free throw to give Aliyah Glory their first win of the season.
Falafel Ballers 52, Bad Boys 45
Bad Boys led 44-29 in the second half, but foul trouble and a lack of depth aided Falafel Ballers in an epic comeback. The Ballers closed the game on a 23-1 run, which included Bad Boys forward Dovi Adler fouling out with four minutes remaining and the Bad Boys clinging to a 45-40 lead, forcing the Bad Boys to finish the game shorthanded.
Shraga 66, Power Mishna 56
The final score is not fully indicative of how close this one was, with Power Mishna keeping the game within arm’s reach until the final minute. Shraga looks like a force, with the inside-outside combination of Max Leibowitz and Dov Marcus, and they are always looking to push the pace. Their 62 points per game leads the FM Home Loans IBL.
Team Piaceczna’s 55, Ashreinu Holy Bagels 45
Piaceczna’s got hot and stayed hot from outside, and hit clutch free throws down the stretch to secure their first victory of the season, against a very tough Ashreinu Holy Bagels team. Piaceczna’s has very good athleticism and are balanced between their frontcourt and backcourt. They are a team to keep an eye on following a slow start to the season.
Sharsheret Shaalvim 52, Pittsburgh Strong 28
Shaalvim got out to a 10-point halftime lead, and crushed Pittsburgh strong in the second half, outscoring their opponent 26-12 after the break. Sharsheret Shaalvim continues to look like a top-tier team and one of the favorites to take the FM Home Loans crown. Pittsburgh Strong is no slouch themselves and should be in a position to make the playoffs and perhaps make a run.
Gold Seals 52, Loketch Group 31
Gold Seals score from all over, combining long-range proficiency with dominance on the glass to cruise to an easy win. The Seals’ only loss to date was a single-digit defeat vs. undefeated TC, and are in the upper-tier when it comes to the league’s best.
FM HOME LOANS ISRAEL BASKETBALL LEAGUE
MOOSEHEADS AND TC REMAIN UNDEFEATED; A. RAFI AND TOMMYS STAYS ON TRACK
Week 4 of the FM Home Loans IBL featured convincing wins from River Cross Mooseheads and TC, emerging teams in A. Rafi and Tommys and Pittsburgh Strong, and a one-possession nail-biter pulled out by Ashreinu Holy Bagels.
River Cross Mooseheads 61, Rap City 36
After a very competitive first half, in which Rap City lefty Isaac Bartfield hit 3 triples, the Mooseheads were able to pull away, using their size to dominate the offensive glass. The Mooseheads are now one of two undefeated teams remaining (TC is the other). They have the look of a legitimate contender.
Bad Boys 33, Invaders 25
In an extreme defensive battle, Bad Boys scrapped their way to an 8-point victory. After a heartbreaking 1-point loss last week to The Loketch Group, Bad Boys even up to .500 with this win. Invaders are still looking to get in the win column.
TC 52, Gold Seals, 43
TC has looked like one of the better teams in the league en route to an undefeated record. Gold Seals is no pushover themselves, with this being their first loss of the season. The Seals hadn’t scored fewer than 56 points in either of their first two games, so TC’s defense deserves credit for holding their opponent well below their 58.5 point average.
Ashreinu Holy Bagels 46, Savages 43
In perhaps the most dramatic game of the weekend, Sy Savages came up just short, missing a halfcourt shot in the waning seconds, unable to remain among the undefeated teams. Ashreinu was without key players Jack Levine and Gabe Fisher, but were able to pull out the victory with timely shot-making and big defensive stops.
Pittsburgh Strong 45, The Loketch Group 33
Pittsburgh Strong started slow but rode really solid defense to improve to .500 on the season. Loketch Group has struggled to get things going offensively, exceeding 33 points scored in just one of four games so far.
Lobos 48, Falafel Ballers 29
After dropping their season opener to Shraga, the Lobos have quietly won 3 straight, each by at least 14 points. Elisha Rudman was very aggressive, dominating in the paint and on the boards. Falafel Ballers had run into some tough luck, losing their first 2 games by 5 points each before recording a victory last week, but they were simply outmatched in this contest.
Sharsheret Shaalvim 48, Team Piaseczna’s 39
Sharsheret Shaalvim got out to a sizeable lead, but Team Piaseczna’s, fueled by a passionate fanbase, roared back in the 2nd half to keep this one competitive. Shaalvim looks like a very formidable squad and legitimate title contender. They were led by the scoring of guard Jake Greenberg. Despite the loss, Piaseczna’s look like they will be a tough matchup for anyone in the FM Home Loans IBL.
A. Rafi and Tommys 54, Aliya Glory 25
The final game of the weekend saw a clinic put on by A. Rafi and Tommys, the only team to defeat aforementioned title contender Sharsheret Shaalvim. A. Rafi and Tommys forward Adam Motovich seemingly could not miss from deep, and Aliya Glory had no answer for him. Aliya Glory guard Ezra Guo used craftiness to penetrate the AR&T defense, but Aliya Glory couldn’t finish those looks, and struggled to stop the transition offense of AR&T.
River Cross Mooseheads 61, Rap City 36
After a very competitive first half, in which Rap City lefty Isaac Bartfield hit 3 triples, the Mooseheads were able to pull away, using their size to dominate the offensive glass. The Mooseheads are now one of two undefeated teams remaining (TC is the other). They have the look of a legitimate contender.
Bad Boys 33, Invaders 25
In an extreme defensive battle, Bad Boys scrapped their way to an 8-point victory. After a heartbreaking 1-point loss last week to The Loketch Group, Bad Boys even up to .500 with this win. Invaders are still looking to get in the win column.
TC 52, Gold Seals, 43
TC has looked like one of the better teams in the league en route to an undefeated record. Gold Seals is no pushover themselves, with this being their first loss of the season. The Seals hadn’t scored fewer than 56 points in either of their first two games, so TC’s defense deserves credit for holding their opponent well below their 58.5 point average.
Ashreinu Holy Bagels 46, Savages 43
In perhaps the most dramatic game of the weekend, Sy Savages came up just short, missing a halfcourt shot in the waning seconds, unable to remain among the undefeated teams. Ashreinu was without key players Jack Levine and Gabe Fisher, but were able to pull out the victory with timely shot-making and big defensive stops.
Pittsburgh Strong 45, The Loketch Group 33
Pittsburgh Strong started slow but rode really solid defense to improve to .500 on the season. Loketch Group has struggled to get things going offensively, exceeding 33 points scored in just one of four games so far.
Lobos 48, Falafel Ballers 29
After dropping their season opener to Shraga, the Lobos have quietly won 3 straight, each by at least 14 points. Elisha Rudman was very aggressive, dominating in the paint and on the boards. Falafel Ballers had run into some tough luck, losing their first 2 games by 5 points each before recording a victory last week, but they were simply outmatched in this contest.
Sharsheret Shaalvim 48, Team Piaseczna’s 39
Sharsheret Shaalvim got out to a sizeable lead, but Team Piaseczna’s, fueled by a passionate fanbase, roared back in the 2nd half to keep this one competitive. Shaalvim looks like a very formidable squad and legitimate title contender. They were led by the scoring of guard Jake Greenberg. Despite the loss, Piaseczna’s look like they will be a tough matchup for anyone in the FM Home Loans IBL.
A. Rafi and Tommys 54, Aliya Glory 25
The final game of the weekend saw a clinic put on by A. Rafi and Tommys, the only team to defeat aforementioned title contender Sharsheret Shaalvim. A. Rafi and Tommys forward Adam Motovich seemingly could not miss from deep, and Aliya Glory had no answer for him. Aliya Glory guard Ezra Guo used craftiness to penetrate the AR&T defense, but Aliya Glory couldn’t finish those looks, and struggled to stop the transition offense of AR&T.
Final Four: Mr. Bagel, TC, LA Ballers, Firehawks
West Coast faces Shua Strong in Teir 2 Championship.
Quarterfinals weekend was packed in the Red & Doctor Murrays Israel Basketball League, with some close games and fantastic finishes.
The Elite 8 started with the #3 seed, TC, playing the sixth-seeded Tzionim. When these teams had met in the regular season, Tzionim had come away with the win, so an upset loomed large. In this game, it was a back and forth first half, with TC clinging to a narrow 32-29 lead at the intermission. The 2nd half was a different story. TC’s defensive game was the best in league history, holding the powerhouse Tzionim to just 6 points! Thanks to their incredible defense, TC came away with the 50-35 victory, advancing to the semifinals, where the #2 seed Shalhevet Firehawks await.
Top-seeded Mr. Bagel also faced a familiar foe, the #8 Pittsburgh Panda Bears. In their regular-season encounter, Mr. Bagel had one of their closest games of the year, only pulling away in the waning seconds. The Panda Bears were confident they could take the rematch, and came out playing excellent, unselfish basketball. Constant ball movement created high-percentage shots, which the Pandas knocked down with efficiency, staking them to an early 10 point lead. Mr. Bagel made some defensive adjustemnts, and started to make inroads into the lead, pulling to within 6 at halftime.
Then, in the the 2nd frame, Mr. Bagel's Josh “The Toaster” Dukas caught fire from the 3 point line. Behind his barrage of 3’s (17 points, 5-6 from beyond the arc), Mr. Bagel came charging back, building a comfortable lead by midway through the half, and cruising to a 65-51 victory.
The 4 vs. 5 playoff matchup is always the tightest on paper, and the LA Ballers vs. Chaburah tilt lived up to the billing. The game was a seesaw battle thoughout, as each side made one clutch play after another, to keep their team in the game. In the final 10 minutes, LA Ballers looked to have finally pulled away, building a 12 point lead - and still, Chaburah wouldn't go down without a fight, as Abie Perlow made big defensive plays, and two big "and-1's" on the offensive end, to bring his team back within two scores. With under a minute left and the game on the line, LA Ballers came together and made repeated defensive stands of their own, to win 50-45. LA Ballers will face Mr. Bagel in the Semifinals.
In the Teir 2 semifinals, top seeded Shua Strong played Team Supreme. Team Supreme came out hot and was in control of the game going into the half. In the second half, Shua Strong’s Chaim Kriger single handedly brought his team back into the game, scoring all the points in a 10-0 run, on his own!
With clutch foul shooting down the stretch, Shua Strong was able to outlast Team Supreme, winning by a score of 52-46, to advance to the Tier 2 championship.
The other semifinal featured #2 West Coast vs #3 Ashreinu Mountain Goats. Ashreinu connected on their first 5 attempts while playing shut-down D, and went into the half up by 8. West Coast's Max Lebowitz came out hot in the 2nd half, hitting three treys in the first 5 minutes. Clutch foul shooting and opportune take-aways down the stretch by West Coast, enabled them to pull out with the victory, 47-42, setting up the championship game match-up against Shua Strong.
The Elite 8 started with the #3 seed, TC, playing the sixth-seeded Tzionim. When these teams had met in the regular season, Tzionim had come away with the win, so an upset loomed large. In this game, it was a back and forth first half, with TC clinging to a narrow 32-29 lead at the intermission. The 2nd half was a different story. TC’s defensive game was the best in league history, holding the powerhouse Tzionim to just 6 points! Thanks to their incredible defense, TC came away with the 50-35 victory, advancing to the semifinals, where the #2 seed Shalhevet Firehawks await.
Top-seeded Mr. Bagel also faced a familiar foe, the #8 Pittsburgh Panda Bears. In their regular-season encounter, Mr. Bagel had one of their closest games of the year, only pulling away in the waning seconds. The Panda Bears were confident they could take the rematch, and came out playing excellent, unselfish basketball. Constant ball movement created high-percentage shots, which the Pandas knocked down with efficiency, staking them to an early 10 point lead. Mr. Bagel made some defensive adjustemnts, and started to make inroads into the lead, pulling to within 6 at halftime.
Then, in the the 2nd frame, Mr. Bagel's Josh “The Toaster” Dukas caught fire from the 3 point line. Behind his barrage of 3’s (17 points, 5-6 from beyond the arc), Mr. Bagel came charging back, building a comfortable lead by midway through the half, and cruising to a 65-51 victory.
The 4 vs. 5 playoff matchup is always the tightest on paper, and the LA Ballers vs. Chaburah tilt lived up to the billing. The game was a seesaw battle thoughout, as each side made one clutch play after another, to keep their team in the game. In the final 10 minutes, LA Ballers looked to have finally pulled away, building a 12 point lead - and still, Chaburah wouldn't go down without a fight, as Abie Perlow made big defensive plays, and two big "and-1's" on the offensive end, to bring his team back within two scores. With under a minute left and the game on the line, LA Ballers came together and made repeated defensive stands of their own, to win 50-45. LA Ballers will face Mr. Bagel in the Semifinals.
In the Teir 2 semifinals, top seeded Shua Strong played Team Supreme. Team Supreme came out hot and was in control of the game going into the half. In the second half, Shua Strong’s Chaim Kriger single handedly brought his team back into the game, scoring all the points in a 10-0 run, on his own!
With clutch foul shooting down the stretch, Shua Strong was able to outlast Team Supreme, winning by a score of 52-46, to advance to the Tier 2 championship.
The other semifinal featured #2 West Coast vs #3 Ashreinu Mountain Goats. Ashreinu connected on their first 5 attempts while playing shut-down D, and went into the half up by 8. West Coast's Max Lebowitz came out hot in the 2nd half, hitting three treys in the first 5 minutes. Clutch foul shooting and opportune take-aways down the stretch by West Coast, enabled them to pull out with the victory, 47-42, setting up the championship game match-up against Shua Strong.
Mr. Bagel Moves into 1st place. TC, Tzionim, LA Ballers win crucial games.
As we head into the final week of the AFI Basketball league, the playoff picture is still up in the air, and every team has a path to win their way into the top tier playoffs.
TC and Tzionim defeated the newcomers Ashreinu 44-23 and 48-41 respectively, while LA Ballers, led by Simcha Menlo (27 points), defeated Imrei 56-43, each virtually clinching a playoff berth.
Mr. Bagel moved into the pole position, with resilient wins in two tough back to back games. The first was against Pittsburgh’s Panda Bears. The Panda Bears came out strong and started the game on a 10-0 run, and led by 13 at the half. The 2nd half was a different story as Mr. Bagel, led by Avishai Alge and Yisroel Feld, came out strong and was able to outscored the Panda Bears by 19 points to secure the victory 61-55.
Mr. Bagel's next opponent was the super talented Shalhevet Firehawks. The game opened with Dovie Marcus draining back to back 3’s for Bagels, but with some quick moves and great shooting by Eitan Halpert, the Firehawks stormed back into the game and the score was tied at half. Second half was a seesaw battle with no team able to pull ahead. With 10 seconds left and the game tied, the Firehawks had a chance to put down Mr. Bagel, but were unable to convert on the buzzer beater. In OT, right off the tip, Yisroel Feld pulled up a couple of feet behind the 3 point arc, and nailed the shot. Thanks to a big basket by Jake “The Tank” Sternberg, and clutch free throw shhoting down the stretch, Mr. Bagel was able to outlast the Firehawks and win in OT 62-55, bringing their record to 5-1.
In other news, Shua Strong defeated West Coast 67-60, to keep both teams on the playoff bubble, heading into the crucial final week.
TC and Tzionim defeated the newcomers Ashreinu 44-23 and 48-41 respectively, while LA Ballers, led by Simcha Menlo (27 points), defeated Imrei 56-43, each virtually clinching a playoff berth.
Mr. Bagel moved into the pole position, with resilient wins in two tough back to back games. The first was against Pittsburgh’s Panda Bears. The Panda Bears came out strong and started the game on a 10-0 run, and led by 13 at the half. The 2nd half was a different story as Mr. Bagel, led by Avishai Alge and Yisroel Feld, came out strong and was able to outscored the Panda Bears by 19 points to secure the victory 61-55.
Mr. Bagel's next opponent was the super talented Shalhevet Firehawks. The game opened with Dovie Marcus draining back to back 3’s for Bagels, but with some quick moves and great shooting by Eitan Halpert, the Firehawks stormed back into the game and the score was tied at half. Second half was a seesaw battle with no team able to pull ahead. With 10 seconds left and the game tied, the Firehawks had a chance to put down Mr. Bagel, but were unable to convert on the buzzer beater. In OT, right off the tip, Yisroel Feld pulled up a couple of feet behind the 3 point arc, and nailed the shot. Thanks to a big basket by Jake “The Tank” Sternberg, and clutch free throw shhoting down the stretch, Mr. Bagel was able to outlast the Firehawks and win in OT 62-55, bringing their record to 5-1.
In other news, Shua Strong defeated West Coast 67-60, to keep both teams on the playoff bubble, heading into the crucial final week.
PANDA BEARS, FIREHAWKS, MR. BAGEL AND LA BALLERS SCORE KEY VICTORIES
At the midway point in the season of the Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League, the standings show just how close the playoff seedings are shaping up to be.
With every win crucial in the playoff race, the Shalhevet Firehawks took on Imrei Bina, with a chance to move within half a game of first place. The Firehawks started on full throttle, jumped out to a quick 10-0 lead, and never looked back, en route to a 60-42 victory, behind Eitan Halperts' 24 points.
In a key battle for a playoff spot, the Pittsburgh Panda Bears defeated West Coast, leaving both teams precisely "on the bubble" for a post-season spot, heading into the home stretch of the regular season. The Panda Bears came out firing and looked to be cruising to an easy win, with a 30-12 lead at the half. After the intermission however, West Coast mounted a furious rally, behind great shooting from Max Lebowitz and Caleb Milobsky, and West Coast came all the way back within a single point, with under 5 minutes remaining. The precariously positioned Pandas proved positively purposeful, pulling away powerd by Sam Fishman’s pinpoint accuracy (20 points, 9 for 12 from the field, 2 for 2 from the foul line), for a 61-46 payoff.
In other important games with post-season implications, Mr. Bagel and LA Ballers each moved up into a tie for third place in the tight playoff race, as Mr. Bagel defeated Team Supreme 59-32, and LA Ballers triumphed over The Chaburah 50-42.
With every win crucial in the playoff race, the Shalhevet Firehawks took on Imrei Bina, with a chance to move within half a game of first place. The Firehawks started on full throttle, jumped out to a quick 10-0 lead, and never looked back, en route to a 60-42 victory, behind Eitan Halperts' 24 points.
In a key battle for a playoff spot, the Pittsburgh Panda Bears defeated West Coast, leaving both teams precisely "on the bubble" for a post-season spot, heading into the home stretch of the regular season. The Panda Bears came out firing and looked to be cruising to an easy win, with a 30-12 lead at the half. After the intermission however, West Coast mounted a furious rally, behind great shooting from Max Lebowitz and Caleb Milobsky, and West Coast came all the way back within a single point, with under 5 minutes remaining. The precariously positioned Pandas proved positively purposeful, pulling away powerd by Sam Fishman’s pinpoint accuracy (20 points, 9 for 12 from the field, 2 for 2 from the foul line), for a 61-46 payoff.
In other important games with post-season implications, Mr. Bagel and LA Ballers each moved up into a tie for third place in the tight playoff race, as Mr. Bagel defeated Team Supreme 59-32, and LA Ballers triumphed over The Chaburah 50-42.
Mr. Bagel And Imrei Win in OT Thrillers.
The marquee matchup of the week in the Red & Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League, Imrei vs. Tzionim, was a defensive battle the whole way through. At halftime the teams were locked in at 15-13, with Tzionim in the lead. Both teams continued to make their opponents work for every point in the second half, and in waning seconds of regulation, with Tzionim down by 2, Moshe Beitler hit a floater to send the game into overtime.
In OT it was more of the same, with each team's defense allowing absolutely no open looks - but with under a minute left, Eli Guwirtz got off a jump shot from the left elbow of the foul line, nailing it to give Imrei a hard-earned 28-26 win in OT.
The Black Knights continued their dominance as they played the under-manned Shalhevet Firehawks, leading from tip-off till the final whistle, and defeating the Firehawks 58-37.
The Pittsburgh Panda Bears moved to 2-0 on the season, by defeating Shua Strong. The Panda Bears built themselves a 20 point lead, and despite a rally by Shua Strong, the Pandas were able to hold them off for a 59-49 victory.
West Coast remained undefeated as each player scored double digits, running away from Mark Fertel by a 69-28 score.
The final game of the weekend was a thriller between newcomers Mr. Bagel and the returning LA Ballers. LA have their eyes on the championship, which barely eluded them last year. The game was fast-paced throughout, with the teams trading baskets and each making small runs, and LA Ballers led 35-30 at the intermission. The pace didn't slow down in the second half, as the teams continued their nip-and-tuck battle. Then, with Mr. Bagel down 2 and less than 15 seconds left in the game, Yisroel Feld (32 pts, 8 reb, 7 assists) stole the ball and scored, to tie the game at 65. LA’s Daniel Tzion (36 pts), who had fueled LA's offense, got off a potential game-winner, but the ball biunced off the rim, sending the game into overtime.
In the extra frame, LA Ballers had a quick and-one to take a 3 point lead, but on the other end the Bagels' Dovie Marcus answered with an and-one of his own, tying the game. After some defensive stops, Feld drew a foul and hit one shot to take a 1 point lead. Mr. Bagel’s came up with a huge defensive stop, and on the offensive end, with the shot clock running down, Feld dribbled between two defenders, nearly lost the ball, and somehow fired a behind-the-back pass to a cutting Marcus, who laid it in to give Mr. Bagel a 3 point lead. A final stop and 2 foul shots iced the game for Mr. Bagel, 73-68.
In OT it was more of the same, with each team's defense allowing absolutely no open looks - but with under a minute left, Eli Guwirtz got off a jump shot from the left elbow of the foul line, nailing it to give Imrei a hard-earned 28-26 win in OT.
The Black Knights continued their dominance as they played the under-manned Shalhevet Firehawks, leading from tip-off till the final whistle, and defeating the Firehawks 58-37.
The Pittsburgh Panda Bears moved to 2-0 on the season, by defeating Shua Strong. The Panda Bears built themselves a 20 point lead, and despite a rally by Shua Strong, the Pandas were able to hold them off for a 59-49 victory.
West Coast remained undefeated as each player scored double digits, running away from Mark Fertel by a 69-28 score.
The final game of the weekend was a thriller between newcomers Mr. Bagel and the returning LA Ballers. LA have their eyes on the championship, which barely eluded them last year. The game was fast-paced throughout, with the teams trading baskets and each making small runs, and LA Ballers led 35-30 at the intermission. The pace didn't slow down in the second half, as the teams continued their nip-and-tuck battle. Then, with Mr. Bagel down 2 and less than 15 seconds left in the game, Yisroel Feld (32 pts, 8 reb, 7 assists) stole the ball and scored, to tie the game at 65. LA’s Daniel Tzion (36 pts), who had fueled LA's offense, got off a potential game-winner, but the ball biunced off the rim, sending the game into overtime.
In the extra frame, LA Ballers had a quick and-one to take a 3 point lead, but on the other end the Bagels' Dovie Marcus answered with an and-one of his own, tying the game. After some defensive stops, Feld drew a foul and hit one shot to take a 1 point lead. Mr. Bagel’s came up with a huge defensive stop, and on the offensive end, with the shot clock running down, Feld dribbled between two defenders, nearly lost the ball, and somehow fired a behind-the-back pass to a cutting Marcus, who laid it in to give Mr. Bagel a 3 point lead. A final stop and 2 foul shots iced the game for Mr. Bagel, 73-68.
“RED AND DR. MURRAY’S” ISRAEL BASKETBALL LEAGUE TIPS OFF: TZIONIM, IMREI, FIREHAWKS, WIN OPENERS
By: Dovid Oratz
The 2017-18 season of the “Red and Dr. Murray's” Israel Basketball League tipped off this week, with a dozen teams looking to bring home the coveted Red Auerbach Championship Trophy.
Opening night saw the veteran Tzionim take on the newcomers, Shua Strong.
The Tzionim came out in their typical 3-2 defense, and despite fantastic shooting from Shua Strong's Albert Waxman (16 pts, 5 reb), the Tzionim were able to limit Shua Strong's scoring, winning the season premier 60- 41. Tzionim were led by Ephraim and Moshe Weider, who combined for over 30 points.
In the second game, Toras Chaims Black Knights made a big statement to the league, as they defeated Fertel 71-43, on hot shooting from Ikey Cohen (20 pts) and the unstoppable inside play of Shmuel Sauer. Fertel was led by Jeffery Owen (12 pts).'
The final game of opening night was Imrei vs. The Chaburah. Despite the late hour, Imrei's defensive game was phenomenal, locking down the 38-17 victory.
Friday saw 4 new teams join the League. The first game was the Shalhevet Firehawks vs. the Pittsburgh's Panda Bears, and it was a close affair the whole way. Behind the 19 points and 6 rebounds of Shalhevets Eitan Halpert, and clutch foul shooting down the line, the Firehawks were able to win the nail-biter over the Panda Bears 43-39. Pittsburgh was led by Sammy Fishman with 15 points.
The final Friday game was between West Coast and Team Supreme. West coast came out firing and never looked back, as they defeated Team Supreme 67-28. West Coast's Max Lebowitz had an incredible game and finished with 27 pts, 16 reb, and 7 assists!
The 2017-18 season of the “Red and Dr. Murray's” Israel Basketball League tipped off this week, with a dozen teams looking to bring home the coveted Red Auerbach Championship Trophy.
Opening night saw the veteran Tzionim take on the newcomers, Shua Strong.
The Tzionim came out in their typical 3-2 defense, and despite fantastic shooting from Shua Strong's Albert Waxman (16 pts, 5 reb), the Tzionim were able to limit Shua Strong's scoring, winning the season premier 60- 41. Tzionim were led by Ephraim and Moshe Weider, who combined for over 30 points.
In the second game, Toras Chaims Black Knights made a big statement to the league, as they defeated Fertel 71-43, on hot shooting from Ikey Cohen (20 pts) and the unstoppable inside play of Shmuel Sauer. Fertel was led by Jeffery Owen (12 pts).'
The final game of opening night was Imrei vs. The Chaburah. Despite the late hour, Imrei's defensive game was phenomenal, locking down the 38-17 victory.
Friday saw 4 new teams join the League. The first game was the Shalhevet Firehawks vs. the Pittsburgh's Panda Bears, and it was a close affair the whole way. Behind the 19 points and 6 rebounds of Shalhevets Eitan Halpert, and clutch foul shooting down the line, the Firehawks were able to win the nail-biter over the Panda Bears 43-39. Pittsburgh was led by Sammy Fishman with 15 points.
The final Friday game was between West Coast and Team Supreme. West coast came out firing and never looked back, as they defeated Team Supreme 67-28. West Coast's Max Lebowitz had an incredible game and finished with 27 pts, 16 reb, and 7 assists!
PLayoff picture is set!
After a riveting last week of games, the standings are set and the playoffs are ready to begin.
The LA ballers finished their perfect regular season with a 45-35 victory over Ashreinu. The Tzionim faced ZC’s Lakers which came down to the wire. With some clutch foul shooting by ZC’s Lakers, they were able to hold off the Tzionim with a 32-31 victory. In other games, Chiraq defeated Lochamim to secure a place in Tier 1.
Shore Heart Group defeated the Trumanaires to secure themselves the #2 seed with a 67-58 victory. The Trumanaires, down by 7 at half, mounted a comeback that almost ended in a victory but clutch shooting by Jacob Dauer and Gabe Leifer helped propel Shore Heart Group to the win. The Trumanaires dropped to 5th place where they’ll face the 4th seed ZC’s Lakers.
Ashreinu played Levinger Magic and squeezed out a victory in OT 63-61, While Ohr Chaim secured the top seed in tier 2 by defeated Rocky Balboa 53-44. Rova Juice secured the #3 slot in Tier 1 by defeating Marhaba Beaches 74-55, while the Thunderhawks also defeated Marhaba Beaches 66-63 to sneak into the 8th seed of Tier 1.
The LA ballers finished their perfect regular season with a 45-35 victory over Ashreinu. The Tzionim faced ZC’s Lakers which came down to the wire. With some clutch foul shooting by ZC’s Lakers, they were able to hold off the Tzionim with a 32-31 victory. In other games, Chiraq defeated Lochamim to secure a place in Tier 1.
Shore Heart Group defeated the Trumanaires to secure themselves the #2 seed with a 67-58 victory. The Trumanaires, down by 7 at half, mounted a comeback that almost ended in a victory but clutch shooting by Jacob Dauer and Gabe Leifer helped propel Shore Heart Group to the win. The Trumanaires dropped to 5th place where they’ll face the 4th seed ZC’s Lakers.
Ashreinu played Levinger Magic and squeezed out a victory in OT 63-61, While Ohr Chaim secured the top seed in tier 2 by defeated Rocky Balboa 53-44. Rova Juice secured the #3 slot in Tier 1 by defeating Marhaba Beaches 74-55, while the Thunderhawks also defeated Marhaba Beaches 66-63 to sneak into the 8th seed of Tier 1.
LA BALLER'S, SHORE HEART GROUP, AND TRUMANAIRES: TOP 3 SEEDS GOING IN TO THE FINAL WEEK.
As we enter the final week of the AFI Basketball league, the playoff picture is becoming clearer. With the top 8 teams making tier 1, there are still openings in tier 1 and there are still many teams able to slip in after this week. Tier 2 will consist of the bottom 7 teams with the top team in Tier 2 getting a bye the 1st round.
In the standings, the LA Ballers stand above the rest at 6-0 as they continue play tough LA basketball. The Trumanaires, behind legend Yisrael Feld, along with Shore Heart Group, behind Gabe Leifer, come in at 5-1 as both teams have fought hard to stay at the top. With there still being one more game, the seeding within Tier 1 is completely up in the air. Will the Tzionim or ZC’s Lakers slip into the top 3 seeds?
The 7th and 8th seeds are also completely open and there are 5 teams vying to snatch up those 2 seeds. Will Chiraq, after a very tough schedule, be able to join Tier 1? Will Ashreinu, fighting adversity, find their way in Tier 1?
As we near crunch time, who will be the team to step up and reach the ultimate goal of winning the Red and Doctor Murray Israel Basketball League!?
In the standings, the LA Ballers stand above the rest at 6-0 as they continue play tough LA basketball. The Trumanaires, behind legend Yisrael Feld, along with Shore Heart Group, behind Gabe Leifer, come in at 5-1 as both teams have fought hard to stay at the top. With there still being one more game, the seeding within Tier 1 is completely up in the air. Will the Tzionim or ZC’s Lakers slip into the top 3 seeds?
The 7th and 8th seeds are also completely open and there are 5 teams vying to snatch up those 2 seeds. Will Chiraq, after a very tough schedule, be able to join Tier 1? Will Ashreinu, fighting adversity, find their way in Tier 1?
As we near crunch time, who will be the team to step up and reach the ultimate goal of winning the Red and Doctor Murray Israel Basketball League!?
Ellkay Wins Championship
By Monty Wayland
In the Championship game of the Red & Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League, top-seed Ellkay completed their undefeated dream season with a resounding 67-54 victory over Old Spice, to take home the Red Auerbach Championship Trophy. Ellkay's statement win came after a Final Four weekend the couldn't have been closer, as buzzer-beaters in both semifinals had the crowd near pandemonium.
Ellkay's Simcha Halpert and Daniel Tzion led the scoring. Halpert's long-range sharp-shooting made him nearly automatic, while Tzion's height, wingspan, and dribbling skills made him virtually unstoppable, as he shot over and around the swarming Old Spice defenders. Indeed, Tzion had made the last-second game-winning floater in overtime of the semi-finals look almost routine, even while weaving past at least three defenders with time about to expire.
Ellkay's attack was complemented by their own version of the "twin towers". In the Ellkay iteration, Adam Liberman filled the role of monster rebounder and post-up shooter. Meanwhile, co-captain Dani Katz was the inside-out threat, punishing teams down low, then popping out for back-breaking threes, as he did to save Ellkay at the end of regulation in the semis.
Tyler Hod, the other co-captain, used speed and smart at the point guard position, leading Ellkay out to a big lead, and pushing the pace to never let up.
For Old Spice, Jason Allen played big, finishing with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Guy Ben-Hanan added 12 points. Old Spice adjusted well after Ellkay's 7-0 opening run, with Sander Eizen and Sam Kalnitz forcing difficult shots for even Ellkay's best offensive threats.
But Benni Tuchman, Moshe Cohen, Jon Greenberg provided all the back-up needed for Ellkay. Tuchman drove the lane for points and big boards, Greenberg used athleticism and a big first step to repeatedly get to the rim, and Cohen's lock-down defense and timely treys kept the game well in hand.
Trailing by 12 at half, Old spice made a push after the intermission, getting as close as a half-dozen, but could never complete the come-back, as Ellkay's tremendously skilled players kept Old Spice at bay. With a few seconds still remaining, the Old Spice players congratulated the new champs, and fans rushed the court to celebrate Ellkay's perfect season.
In the Championship game of the Red & Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League, top-seed Ellkay completed their undefeated dream season with a resounding 67-54 victory over Old Spice, to take home the Red Auerbach Championship Trophy. Ellkay's statement win came after a Final Four weekend the couldn't have been closer, as buzzer-beaters in both semifinals had the crowd near pandemonium.
Ellkay's Simcha Halpert and Daniel Tzion led the scoring. Halpert's long-range sharp-shooting made him nearly automatic, while Tzion's height, wingspan, and dribbling skills made him virtually unstoppable, as he shot over and around the swarming Old Spice defenders. Indeed, Tzion had made the last-second game-winning floater in overtime of the semi-finals look almost routine, even while weaving past at least three defenders with time about to expire.
Ellkay's attack was complemented by their own version of the "twin towers". In the Ellkay iteration, Adam Liberman filled the role of monster rebounder and post-up shooter. Meanwhile, co-captain Dani Katz was the inside-out threat, punishing teams down low, then popping out for back-breaking threes, as he did to save Ellkay at the end of regulation in the semis.
Tyler Hod, the other co-captain, used speed and smart at the point guard position, leading Ellkay out to a big lead, and pushing the pace to never let up.
For Old Spice, Jason Allen played big, finishing with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Guy Ben-Hanan added 12 points. Old Spice adjusted well after Ellkay's 7-0 opening run, with Sander Eizen and Sam Kalnitz forcing difficult shots for even Ellkay's best offensive threats.
But Benni Tuchman, Moshe Cohen, Jon Greenberg provided all the back-up needed for Ellkay. Tuchman drove the lane for points and big boards, Greenberg used athleticism and a big first step to repeatedly get to the rim, and Cohen's lock-down defense and timely treys kept the game well in hand.
Trailing by 12 at half, Old spice made a push after the intermission, getting as close as a half-dozen, but could never complete the come-back, as Ellkay's tremendously skilled players kept Old Spice at bay. With a few seconds still remaining, the Old Spice players congratulated the new champs, and fans rushed the court to celebrate Ellkay's perfect season.
ELLKAY FACE OLD SPICE FOR CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY;
LOBOS TAKE ON VINCE’S PEANUTS IN AFI CUP.
By Monty Walyand
The stage is set for this year's Red Auerbach Championship Trophy title game, and emotions are at a fever pitch, after both Semifinal games saw buzzer-beater finishes!
The Teir I semifinal games were ones for the history books.
Top-seeded Ellkay defeated the Nesharim in exciting fashion. The game was a seesaw with no team able to pull away, as the lead seemed to change hands every minute. With under a minute left, Nesharim was able to put together back to back baskets, to take a 3 point lead.
Things looked desperate for Ellkay when the Nesharim came up with a loose ball, and well beyond desperate when, looking to foul or get a steal, they allowed the Nesharim to find the open man for a fast-break and the potential dagger!
After defending the fast-break with little more than a prayer, Ellkay's Tyler Hod raced up the court and got the ball to Captain Dani Katz, in heavy traffic at the three-point line. The Nesharim defenders, aware of Katz's sharpshooting skills, fouled hard in an effort to prevent any shot, but Katz somehow got the ball airborne - and hit the three with one second remaining!
With the raucous crowd in disbelief, Katz went to the line to try and end the game in regulation, but could not convert, and the game went into overtime.
The OT was just as close, with Ellkay taking a four point lead, and Nesharim fighting back and tying the score with 5 seconds left. But Ellkay's Daniel Tzion used a beautiful crossover, and hit a floater just as time expired, to secure the 46-44 victory.
The next semifinal game pitted the ever dangerous Tzionim against the newcomers Old Spice. The game was tight from the beginning, with Tzionim making a small run at the end of the first half, to open up a nine-point lead, behind Shua Zakitinsky’s shooting.
Old Spice then switched to a zone defense, which proved effective, eventually taking a lead on a 3-pointer by Sander Eizen. However, the Tzionim weren’t done, and were able to tie the game with under a minute left.
A jump shot off a screen at the top of the key by Dovid Oratz gave Old spice a 2-point lead with 10 seconds left. With two fouls to give, Old Spice tried to burn the clock - but they mistakenly fouled on a shot attempt, sending marksman Elisha Edelman to the line, with 1 second left!
After Edelman tied the game, Old Spice used their final timeout, to design a play from half-court. Using a double screen, Oratz caught the in-bounding pass while heading deep into the corner, and quickly flung the ball one-handed towards the basket. As the whistle sounded, the ball kissed the backboard and dropped in, to give Old Spice the 47-44 win in regulation!
Old Spice will face the undefeated Ellkay in the championship this Saturday night, with tip-off scheduled for 10 p.m., at the Denmark Gym.
In Teir II, the top seeded Vince’s Peanuts played the #5 Vita Healthcare, and it was a close game the whole way through.
Vita Healthcare Group came out strong and had the lead early in the game, but great unselfish play from Captain Mordy Sheinbein brought Vince’s Peanuts back in the game, with a 2 point lead at half.
The second half saw Vince’s Peanuts playing lock down defense, and they were able to secure a 53-49 victory, to advance to the Teir II championship.
The other Tier II semifinal game showcased the #3 Lobos and t#7 Let’s Dance. The Lobos came out aggressive, and were in control for most of the game. Let’s Dance put together a valiant run toward the end, and came within a deuce, but the Lobos converted on clutch free throws and were able to hold off the challenge, for a 44-38 final tally, and a ticket to the Teir II championship, where they will face Vince’s Peanuts.
The stage is set for this year's Red Auerbach Championship Trophy title game, and emotions are at a fever pitch, after both Semifinal games saw buzzer-beater finishes!
The Teir I semifinal games were ones for the history books.
Top-seeded Ellkay defeated the Nesharim in exciting fashion. The game was a seesaw with no team able to pull away, as the lead seemed to change hands every minute. With under a minute left, Nesharim was able to put together back to back baskets, to take a 3 point lead.
Things looked desperate for Ellkay when the Nesharim came up with a loose ball, and well beyond desperate when, looking to foul or get a steal, they allowed the Nesharim to find the open man for a fast-break and the potential dagger!
After defending the fast-break with little more than a prayer, Ellkay's Tyler Hod raced up the court and got the ball to Captain Dani Katz, in heavy traffic at the three-point line. The Nesharim defenders, aware of Katz's sharpshooting skills, fouled hard in an effort to prevent any shot, but Katz somehow got the ball airborne - and hit the three with one second remaining!
With the raucous crowd in disbelief, Katz went to the line to try and end the game in regulation, but could not convert, and the game went into overtime.
The OT was just as close, with Ellkay taking a four point lead, and Nesharim fighting back and tying the score with 5 seconds left. But Ellkay's Daniel Tzion used a beautiful crossover, and hit a floater just as time expired, to secure the 46-44 victory.
The next semifinal game pitted the ever dangerous Tzionim against the newcomers Old Spice. The game was tight from the beginning, with Tzionim making a small run at the end of the first half, to open up a nine-point lead, behind Shua Zakitinsky’s shooting.
Old Spice then switched to a zone defense, which proved effective, eventually taking a lead on a 3-pointer by Sander Eizen. However, the Tzionim weren’t done, and were able to tie the game with under a minute left.
A jump shot off a screen at the top of the key by Dovid Oratz gave Old spice a 2-point lead with 10 seconds left. With two fouls to give, Old Spice tried to burn the clock - but they mistakenly fouled on a shot attempt, sending marksman Elisha Edelman to the line, with 1 second left!
After Edelman tied the game, Old Spice used their final timeout, to design a play from half-court. Using a double screen, Oratz caught the in-bounding pass while heading deep into the corner, and quickly flung the ball one-handed towards the basket. As the whistle sounded, the ball kissed the backboard and dropped in, to give Old Spice the 47-44 win in regulation!
Old Spice will face the undefeated Ellkay in the championship this Saturday night, with tip-off scheduled for 10 p.m., at the Denmark Gym.
In Teir II, the top seeded Vince’s Peanuts played the #5 Vita Healthcare, and it was a close game the whole way through.
Vita Healthcare Group came out strong and had the lead early in the game, but great unselfish play from Captain Mordy Sheinbein brought Vince’s Peanuts back in the game, with a 2 point lead at half.
The second half saw Vince’s Peanuts playing lock down defense, and they were able to secure a 53-49 victory, to advance to the Teir II championship.
The other Tier II semifinal game showcased the #3 Lobos and t#7 Let’s Dance. The Lobos came out aggressive, and were in control for most of the game. Let’s Dance put together a valiant run toward the end, and came within a deuce, but the Lobos converted on clutch free throws and were able to hold off the challenge, for a 44-38 final tally, and a ticket to the Teir II championship, where they will face Vince’s Peanuts.
FINAL FOUR: TZIONIM FACE OLD SPICE, ELLKAY TAKE ON EVED
Playoffs in The Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League have begun, and all roads lead to the coveted Red Auerbach Championship Trophy.
In Tier I, all four top seeds advanced to the Semifinals.
Top seeded Ellkay continued to dominate on both offense and defense, showing the league why they’re the 1st seed, with a 51-36 defeat of Eved.
KBKB, who ended their season on a hot streak and made the 5th seed, took on Neshraim, the 4th seed. The game was physical and tight all the way, until Neshraim went on a small run down the stretch, and was able to convert on foul shots to stretch the final margin to 50-40. Nesharim secured their ticket to the semi’s, where they’ll face the ever ferocious Ellkay.
On the other side of the bracket, #3 Old Spice was matched up against #6 Lochamim. Aryeh Sunshine's sharpshooting skills, and the board control of Sam Kalnitz and Jason Allen, fueled an Old Spice victory, 54-45.
The last of the quarterfinals games saw #2 Tzionim, no stranger to the Teir I playoffs, face #7 Tarheels. The Tarheels put up a tremendous fight, rallying again and again, and looked set to complete a comeback with a push in the waning minutes. But the last Tzionim counterattack proved too much, and with a final score of 46-38, Tzionim advanced to face Old Spice in the Semi’s.
In Teir II, R.J.L. legends were going for the rare "8th seed upset", and indeed had the game was tied at halftime. But Vince’s Peanuts opened the second half on an 8-0 run and never looked back, winning 45-37.
Not to be outdone, the second-biggest underdog, 7th-seeded Let’s Dance, pulled off an upset of dramatic proportions, defeating the second seed, Lev Trap House.
Meanwhile, #5 Vita Healthcare Group defeated #4 Shade Control 43-31. And the Lobos advanced as well, defeating OurCrowd 49-21.
Vita Healthcare Group will face Vince’s Peanuts in the Semi’s, while the Lobos now face Let’s Dance.
In Tier I, all four top seeds advanced to the Semifinals.
Top seeded Ellkay continued to dominate on both offense and defense, showing the league why they’re the 1st seed, with a 51-36 defeat of Eved.
KBKB, who ended their season on a hot streak and made the 5th seed, took on Neshraim, the 4th seed. The game was physical and tight all the way, until Neshraim went on a small run down the stretch, and was able to convert on foul shots to stretch the final margin to 50-40. Nesharim secured their ticket to the semi’s, where they’ll face the ever ferocious Ellkay.
On the other side of the bracket, #3 Old Spice was matched up against #6 Lochamim. Aryeh Sunshine's sharpshooting skills, and the board control of Sam Kalnitz and Jason Allen, fueled an Old Spice victory, 54-45.
The last of the quarterfinals games saw #2 Tzionim, no stranger to the Teir I playoffs, face #7 Tarheels. The Tarheels put up a tremendous fight, rallying again and again, and looked set to complete a comeback with a push in the waning minutes. But the last Tzionim counterattack proved too much, and with a final score of 46-38, Tzionim advanced to face Old Spice in the Semi’s.
In Teir II, R.J.L. legends were going for the rare "8th seed upset", and indeed had the game was tied at halftime. But Vince’s Peanuts opened the second half on an 8-0 run and never looked back, winning 45-37.
Not to be outdone, the second-biggest underdog, 7th-seeded Let’s Dance, pulled off an upset of dramatic proportions, defeating the second seed, Lev Trap House.
Meanwhile, #5 Vita Healthcare Group defeated #4 Shade Control 43-31. And the Lobos advanced as well, defeating OurCrowd 49-21.
Vita Healthcare Group will face Vince’s Peanuts in the Semi’s, while the Lobos now face Let’s Dance.
ELLKAY, TZIONIM, OLD SPICE REMAIN UNDEFEATED
By Dovid Oratz
The Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League passed the midway point, with some teams still undefeated and others fighting for a spot in the tier one playoffs.
Team Ellkay stands undefeated at 5-0, defeating Lev Trap House 68-50. Ellkay has defeated each team they have faced by double digits, and at this point look to be 'the team to beat'.
Two other teams remain undefeated, together with Ellkay. Old Spice are tied for first at 5-0, after a 67-43 victory over Lochamim.
The Tzionim, also undefeated and just half a game out of first after taking a bye, look to add to their 4-0 record this week.
Nesharim edged KBKB 67-62 with a big run late in the 4th quarter to notch their 4th win, and position themselves for a playoff run. Meanwhile, Vita Healthcare Group earned a 41-30 victory over OurCrowd, and the Lobos defeated R.J.L. Legends 48-33.
The Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League passed the midway point, with some teams still undefeated and others fighting for a spot in the tier one playoffs.
Team Ellkay stands undefeated at 5-0, defeating Lev Trap House 68-50. Ellkay has defeated each team they have faced by double digits, and at this point look to be 'the team to beat'.
Two other teams remain undefeated, together with Ellkay. Old Spice are tied for first at 5-0, after a 67-43 victory over Lochamim.
The Tzionim, also undefeated and just half a game out of first after taking a bye, look to add to their 4-0 record this week.
Nesharim edged KBKB 67-62 with a big run late in the 4th quarter to notch their 4th win, and position themselves for a playoff run. Meanwhile, Vita Healthcare Group earned a 41-30 victory over OurCrowd, and the Lobos defeated R.J.L. Legends 48-33.
"RED AND DOCTOR MURRAY'S" ISRAEL BASKETBALL LEAGUE TIPS OFF"
By Dovid Oratz
The Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League tipped off this week, with exciting games featuring perennial contenders as well as promising new teams, all vying for the coveted Red Auerbach Championship Trophy.
The Tzionim returned this year with a revamped crew, and opened their season with 47-29 win over Team Young. The 1st half was a close match, but the Tzionim went on a 17-2 run to start the second half and never looked back. Mordy Rudinsky of the Tzionim led all scorers with 25 points while Elisha Addelman added 14.
New teams, Old Spice and Vita Healthcare Group started their season Thursday night, with Old Spice leading a balanced attack with multiple players scoring in double digits en route to a 59-31 victory.
Newcomers the Wolfpack, took care of the returning Vince's Peanuts 39-33.
Lev Trap House played Eved, and it was a very close game to the end, with many lead changes throughout the game. Eved's Elazar Kolom (20 points) and Gidon Neuman (15 pts) kept Eved in the game. However, Lev's athletic ability and monster rebounding from their big men was too much for Eved, as Lev defeated them 58-50.
Ellkay came into their game wanting to show the league that they're in it to win it, with a commanding 71-24 win over Shade Control. Ellkay was led by Simcha Halpert (21) and Jon Greenberg (15)
Nesharim jumped out to a 13-2 lead and although R.J.L. Legends brought it within 9, they were unable to complete the comeback, with Nesharim defeating R.J.L. Legends 54-31. Nesharim was led by Jon Granowitz with 17 pts (three 3's) and R.J.L. was led by Mordy Reisman (17 pts)
As more teams join the league, Everyone is wondering: Who will be the next Champion?
The Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League tipped off this week, with exciting games featuring perennial contenders as well as promising new teams, all vying for the coveted Red Auerbach Championship Trophy.
The Tzionim returned this year with a revamped crew, and opened their season with 47-29 win over Team Young. The 1st half was a close match, but the Tzionim went on a 17-2 run to start the second half and never looked back. Mordy Rudinsky of the Tzionim led all scorers with 25 points while Elisha Addelman added 14.
New teams, Old Spice and Vita Healthcare Group started their season Thursday night, with Old Spice leading a balanced attack with multiple players scoring in double digits en route to a 59-31 victory.
Newcomers the Wolfpack, took care of the returning Vince's Peanuts 39-33.
Lev Trap House played Eved, and it was a very close game to the end, with many lead changes throughout the game. Eved's Elazar Kolom (20 points) and Gidon Neuman (15 pts) kept Eved in the game. However, Lev's athletic ability and monster rebounding from their big men was too much for Eved, as Lev defeated them 58-50.
Ellkay came into their game wanting to show the league that they're in it to win it, with a commanding 71-24 win over Shade Control. Ellkay was led by Simcha Halpert (21) and Jon Greenberg (15)
Nesharim jumped out to a 13-2 lead and although R.J.L. Legends brought it within 9, they were unable to complete the comeback, with Nesharim defeating R.J.L. Legends 54-31. Nesharim was led by Jon Granowitz with 17 pts (three 3's) and R.J.L. was led by Mordy Reisman (17 pts)
As more teams join the league, Everyone is wondering: Who will be the next Champion?
GARDEN RIGS TAKE CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY, CCJ WIN AFI CUP
By Monty Wayland
In an overtime thriller with dramatic swings that made this week's elections look tame by comparison, Garden Rigs came through with a stunning victory, to claim the championship title in the Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League.
Fans stormed the court at the final buzzer, hoisting the Garden Rigs heroes onto their shoulders and the Red Auerbach Championship Trophy into the air, and setting off late-night celebrations among the faithful.
Garden Rigs' worthy adversaries were Ashreinu, and both teams put on a defensive clinic, never once surrendering an easy bucket throughout the night.
Garden Rigs was able to shut down Ashreinu's normally deadly outside shooting, while also preventing their patented athletic cuts to the hoop. Ashreinu, determined to expend no less effort, turned up the defensive pressure, trading steals and huge defensive stops.
Garden Rigs led by a single point at the half, and the second act was more of the same, as neither team was able to go on a run to put the game away.
At the one-minute mark, Ashreinu took a two-point lead, but Garden Rigs answered to tie. With time running out and Ashreinu looking for a buzzer-beater, Garden Rigs came up with their biggest defensive stand of the night, leaving the score deadlocked at the end of regulation.
As the championship game entered overtime, players' and fans' intensity reached a fever pitch, and both teams defenses' looked like they might simply refuse to allow a point. But Duvi Grumet finally found a small sliver of daylight, knocking down a 3-pointer and bringing down the house, to take the lead, 31-28.
Ashreinu would convert on foul shots to cut the lead to one, but was then forced to send Garden Rigs to line. It was Grumet shooting again, this time calmly sinking both free throws. Ashreinu's last-gasp long-range attempt to tie fell short, and Garden Rigs were the 2015 Champs, winning with score 33-30.
Yehoshua Zirman and Bryan Itkowitz notched 10 points apiece for Garden Rigs, while Ashreinu's attack was led by Justin Hod (9) and Bennett Scwartz (8) .
In the Tier 2 AFI Cup finals, top-seeded Vince Peanuts faced the challengers CCJ in the championship game.
CCJ came out strong, and were dominant on the boards, recording 15 team offensive rebounds. David Azancot and Mordy Reisman led the methodical CCJ attack, as the team resisted temptation and did not attempt a single three-pointer for the first three quarters of the game. The strategy seemed to work, as CCJ built an 8-point halftime lead, and looked poised to put the game out of reach.
A furious Vince Peanuts rally threatened the lead late, but CCJ then pulled out an unexpected trump card - 4-for-7 shooting down the stretch, from behind the arc!
The expert stealth marksmanship hurtled CCJ to a 44-28 final margin. Azancot tallied 5 offensive rebounds and 15 points and was named the MVP, and the entire team was presented with the AFI Cup.
In an overtime thriller with dramatic swings that made this week's elections look tame by comparison, Garden Rigs came through with a stunning victory, to claim the championship title in the Red and Doctor Murray's Israel Basketball League.
Fans stormed the court at the final buzzer, hoisting the Garden Rigs heroes onto their shoulders and the Red Auerbach Championship Trophy into the air, and setting off late-night celebrations among the faithful.
Garden Rigs' worthy adversaries were Ashreinu, and both teams put on a defensive clinic, never once surrendering an easy bucket throughout the night.
Garden Rigs was able to shut down Ashreinu's normally deadly outside shooting, while also preventing their patented athletic cuts to the hoop. Ashreinu, determined to expend no less effort, turned up the defensive pressure, trading steals and huge defensive stops.
Garden Rigs led by a single point at the half, and the second act was more of the same, as neither team was able to go on a run to put the game away.
At the one-minute mark, Ashreinu took a two-point lead, but Garden Rigs answered to tie. With time running out and Ashreinu looking for a buzzer-beater, Garden Rigs came up with their biggest defensive stand of the night, leaving the score deadlocked at the end of regulation.
As the championship game entered overtime, players' and fans' intensity reached a fever pitch, and both teams defenses' looked like they might simply refuse to allow a point. But Duvi Grumet finally found a small sliver of daylight, knocking down a 3-pointer and bringing down the house, to take the lead, 31-28.
Ashreinu would convert on foul shots to cut the lead to one, but was then forced to send Garden Rigs to line. It was Grumet shooting again, this time calmly sinking both free throws. Ashreinu's last-gasp long-range attempt to tie fell short, and Garden Rigs were the 2015 Champs, winning with score 33-30.
Yehoshua Zirman and Bryan Itkowitz notched 10 points apiece for Garden Rigs, while Ashreinu's attack was led by Justin Hod (9) and Bennett Scwartz (8) .
In the Tier 2 AFI Cup finals, top-seeded Vince Peanuts faced the challengers CCJ in the championship game.
CCJ came out strong, and were dominant on the boards, recording 15 team offensive rebounds. David Azancot and Mordy Reisman led the methodical CCJ attack, as the team resisted temptation and did not attempt a single three-pointer for the first three quarters of the game. The strategy seemed to work, as CCJ built an 8-point halftime lead, and looked poised to put the game out of reach.
A furious Vince Peanuts rally threatened the lead late, but CCJ then pulled out an unexpected trump card - 4-for-7 shooting down the stretch, from behind the arc!
The expert stealth marksmanship hurtled CCJ to a 44-28 final margin. Azancot tallied 5 offensive rebounds and 15 points and was named the MVP, and the entire team was presented with the AFI Cup.
basketball league registration now open!
Registration is now open for the AFI Israel Basketball League - opening tip-off is just a few weeks!
For info or to register, contact League Commissioner Yair Smith at afibasketball@gmail.com or at 052-286-0076.
For info or to register, contact League Commissioner Yair Smith at afibasketball@gmail.com or at 052-286-0076.
Thanks to our wonderful sponsors!Wildes and Weinberg: U. S. Immigration Law Firm. Serving the U.S. bound visa, green card, and citizenship needs for over 54 years: www.wildeslaw.com
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Who are "Red and Doctor Murray"?"Red" was none other than Arnold "Red" Auerbach, the greatest coach in NBA history. "Doctor Murray" is Dr. Murray Lieberman, of Washington D.C., who helped "Red" for years as his physician - and friend.
Click here to read just one of the very special articles about "Red and Doctor Murray". (This one's by Boston Globe columnist Jacke MacMullan.) The AFI Israel Basketball League is sponsored in honor of Red and Doctor Murray by their friend Chris Wallace. Mr. Wallace, a true friend of Israel and the AFI, is the GM of the Memphis Grizzlies - and has the unique honor of having been a successor of Red Auerbach, as GM of the Boston Celtics. |
