In a commanding display of offensive firepower and defensive intensity, Ironi Nes Ziona dismantled Maccabi Raanana 96–70 on June 3, 2026, in a Ligat HaAl regular-season clash. The home side never trailed after the opening minutes, turning the game into a one-sided affair that underlined their credentials as one of the league’s most dangerous teams.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, Ironi Nes Ziona set a blistering pace. Their ball movement was crisp, and they knocked down shots from all over the floor, building a double-digit lead by the end of the first quarter. Maccabi Raanana struggled to contain the home team’s pick-and-roll actions and were repeatedly beaten on the glass. By halftime, the gap had swelled to 18 points, and the second half offered little respite for the visitors.

The 96–70 final score reflected a near-flawless offensive execution from Nes Ziona, who shot over 52% from the field and assisted on 22 of their 38 made baskets. Defensively, they forced 15 turnovers and turned those into 22 fast-break points, leaving Raanana chasing the game throughout.

Key Moments

• First-quarter blitz: Nes Ziona opened with a 14–2 run, combining three-pointers with aggressive drives to the rim. By the end of the period, they led 28–14.
• Second-quarter separation: A 10–0 spurt early in the second quarter pushed the lead past 20 points, with the home team’s bench providing a significant scoring boost.
• Third-quarter knockout: Maccabi Raanana briefly cut the deficit to 14 early in the third, but Nes Ziona responded with a 12–2 run that effectively sealed the game.

Standout Performers

Ironi Nes Ziona’s backcourt duo combined for 45 points. The point guard orchestrated the offense with 14 points and 10 assists, while the shooting guard poured in a game-high 26 points, including 5-of-8 from three-point range. The frontcourt also dominated the boards, grabbing 14 offensive rebounds that led to multiple second-chance opportunities.

For Maccabi Raanana, the bright spot was their center, who posted 18 points and 9 rebounds, but he received little support from his teammates. The team’s perimeter shooters went a combined 4-for-16 from deep, and they committed 12 turnovers in the first half alone.

Impact on the Ligat HaAl Standings

The victory improved Ironi Nes Ziona’s record to 18–9, keeping them firmly in the top half of the Ligat HaAl standings as they push for a playoff spot. Maccabi Raanana, now 12–15, saw their postseason hopes take a hit, falling three games behind the eighth-place team with a tough remaining schedule.

With this win, Nes Ziona also extended their home winning streak to six games, establishing their arena as a fortress. If they maintain this level of play, they will be a tough matchup for any opponent come playoff time.