Real Madrid secured their spot in the Euroleague Final Four with an 81-87 victory over Hapoel Tel Aviv in Game 4 of the playoff series. The win gave Madrid a 3-1 series triumph, avenging last season’s quarterfinal exit to Olympiacos. Dan Oturu was named MVP of the game, contributing 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 assist over 33 minutes.
The game was a tense affair, with Madrid showing both the quality that carried them through the regular season and some recurring mistakes from Game 3. However, the weight of experience and individual brilliance proved decisive. Their opponent in the Final Four is yet to be determined, with Panathinaikos and Valencia still battling it out.
Here are the key moments from the contest:
– Final score: Hapoel Tel Aviv Subaru 81, Real Madrid 87.
– A late triple from Jones brought Hapoel within reach, but Madrid responded through Hezonja’s clutch and-one (78-84) and Edwards’ timely three-pointer (73-83).
– Usman Garuba was immense in the closing stages, battling through pain to score on a reverse layup and making crucial defensive plays.
– With three minutes left, Jones cut the deficit to eight (66-76), but Madrid held firm, with Campazzo converting a critical and-one (63-70) to calm the nerves.
– By the end of the third quarter, Madrid led 53-63, thanks to a buzzer-beating triple from Lyles. Edwards also delivered a powerful two-handed dunk and Oturu continued to dominate the offensive boards.
– Early in the second half, Oturu’s presence under the rim was a constant problem for Hapoel, while Maledon and Jones kept the Israeli side within striking distance.
– Madrid controlled the first half, with Oturu already nearing 20 points and Lyles providing quality scoring.
The Madrid comeback story is now complete: after missing the Final Four last year, they have earned redemption. Their opponent will be determined in the other series, but for now, the white-clad team can celebrate a hard-fought victory.
Box Score Highlights:
– Dan Oturu: 29 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist
– Hezonja: 13 points (including key free throws)
– Campazzo: 12 points, multiple assists
– Garuba: 10 points, 8 rebounds
– Edwards: 9 points (including two crucial triples)