Hapoel Tel Aviv Outmuscles Granada in Cyber Eurocup Playoffs: Game 1 Breakdown

The Hapoel Granada Cyber Eurocup Playoffs matchup brought a clash of contrasting tactics and playoff intensity in Game 1 of the Top 16. Both teams relied on zone defense, but it was Hapoel’s execution and rebounding that set them apart. While Granada struggled with perimeter-heavy offense, Hapoel mixed three-point shooting with smart interior attacks and second-chance scoring. As the Cyber Eurocup Playoffs continue, this series between Hapoel and Granada shows how strategy and roster depth can define postseason success.

Wainright and Motley were key factors, for Hapoel Tel-Avivs game 1 win

Tactical Analysis: Hapoel Granada Cyber Eurocup Playoffs Game 1: Zone Defense and Offensive Execution

Both teams relied heavily on zone defense, with Hapoel committing to it for nearly the entire game. This defensive setup forced Granada to adapt—and unfortunately for them, they leaned too heavily on perimeter shooting.

Granada ran a 5-out offense, designed to space the floor against Hapoel’s compact zone. However, this approach left them with no inside presence to consistently crash the boards. They attempted 34 three-pointers but converted just 21%, struggling to get rhythm shots. The absence of off-ball cuts and a lack of aggressive zone penetration meant Hapoel could remain comfortable in their shell defense.

Hapoel, on the other hand, played a more balanced 4-out, 1-in offensive set, which allowed them to attack the gaps in Granada’s zone. This not only led to cleaner looks inside but also opened up shooters on the perimeter. Importantly, Hapoel capitalized on second chances, grabbing 16 offensive rebounds, compared to just 7 by Granada.

Game 1: Teamstats

Hapoel’s Depth and Inside Presence Makes the Difference

While both teams shot poorly from the field, Hapoel's physicality and rebounding were defining. The frontcourt duo of J. Motley (9 PTS, 13 REB) and B. Caboclo (10 PTS, 12 REB, 3 AST) imposed their will inside. Caboclo especially stood out with his dual impact on both ends—scoring in the paint, grabbing boards, and initiating plays from the elbow.

Supporting efforts came from I. Wainright (8 PTS) and A. Blakeney (8 PTS, 3 STL), who brought shot creation and perimeter hustle. Y. Madar added 5 points and 4 assists, managing the offense and exploiting Granada’s weak side rotations.

Even from the bench, M. Bingham Jr. made a notable contribution, pulling down 10 rebounds in limited minutes. The depth and rebounding advantage allowed Hapoel to survive a cold shooting night from three (29%) and the free-throw line (36%).

Granada’s Offense Falters Under Defensive Pressure

Granada’s issues stemmed from poor shot selection and ineffective zone offense. Despite G. Clavell’s 8 points and A. Noua’s double-digit rebounding effort (12 REB), the team failed to find a consistent scoring option. Clavell and Noua were the only sparks, but their inefficiency (combined 5-of-19 FG) stalled any scoring momentum.

The Spanish side’s game plan appeared too reliant on hitting contested jumpers. Lacking aggressive drives, cuts behind the zone, or paint touches, they couldn't collapse Hapoel’s defense or create open passing lanes. With only 12 points in the paint, Granada struggled to get anything going inside, and their 16 turnovers compounded their problems.

What’s Next?

With Game 1 in the books, Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv takes control of the series. Their size, rebounding, and zone discipline exposed tactical gaps in Granada’s game plan. Unless Granada adjusts its offense to attack the zone and reduces its dependency on threes, Hapoel will remain in the driver’s seat for Game 2.

For Granada, the message is clear: adapt or go home.