Hapoel Jerusalem secured a 90-83 road win over Le Mans in EuroCup Basketball, using a decisive second-half surge to overcome a spirited home side. The result strengthens Hapoel’s position in the EuroCup Basketball standings and leaves Le Mans searching for consistency in a crowded European field.

Match overview

Le Mans opened with energy, attacking the paint and forcing early fouls to take a narrow 21-18 lead after the first quarter. Hapoel Jerusalem responded through perimeter shooting and improved ball movement, edging ahead 45-43 by halftime. The visitors then seized control in the third quarter, outscoring Le Mans 26-17 behind a series of turnovers and quick transition baskets. Le Mans made a late push in the fourth, cutting the deficit to four points, but Hapoel’s composure at the free-throw line closed out the win.

Key moments

• Hapoel’s 10-0 run early in the third quarter turned a two-point halftime lead into a double-digit advantage.
• Le Mans answered with an 8-0 burst late in the fourth, forcing Hapoel to call timeout with 2:10 remaining.
• A steal and fast-break layup by Hapoel’s backcourt with 1:30 left restored a six-point cushion.
• Hapoel converted 8 of 10 free throws in the final minute to seal the result.

Tactical story

Hapoel Jerusalem’s pick-and-roll coverage disrupted Le Mans’ rhythm, forcing the hosts into contested mid-range shots. The visitors also won the turnover battle, turning Le Mans’ 15 giveaways into 19 points. Le Mans held a 38-33 rebounding edge and scored 42 points in the paint, but their 30% shooting from three-point range limited their ability to keep pace. Hapoel shot 48% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc, balancing inside scoring with timely perimeter shooting.

Standout players

Hapoel’s primary ball-handler finished with 22 points and 6 assists, consistently breaking down Le Mans’ defense in the second half. Their forward added 18 points and 8 rebounds, providing a steady interior presence. For Le Mans, the starting forward recorded 20 points and 10 rebounds, while the guard chipped in 15 points and 4 assists. The hosts’ bench contributed 18 points but could not match Hapoel’s late execution.

Season impact

The victory lifts Hapoel Jerusalem’s EuroCup Basketball record and strengthens their case for a top-six finish in the group phase. Le Mans remains within striking distance of the playoff places but must improve their late-game decision-making. The head-to-head result could prove important if the teams finish level in the standings. Hapoel next face a difficult road test, while Le Mans will look to bounce back at home.