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. |