Unicaja Malaga Overcomes Huge Hapoel Tel Aviv Comeback to Advance to EuroCup Last 8

Unicaja Malaga Advances to EuroCup Last 8

In a huge Virtual EuroCup Playoff drama, Unicaja Malaga overcomes Hapoel Tel Aviv comeback and emerged victorious against Hapoel Tel Aviv, managed by Andrius Kankevicius, with a final score of 76-71. This victory secures Malaga, controlled by Viktor Vladov, a place in the EuroCup Last 8, where they will face Tenerife, led by Mantas Tamosauskas.

Early Dominance and Defensive Struggles

Viktor Vladov's Unicaja Malaga started the game strong, building a significant lead of 21 points. Their defensive strategy focused on locking down the paint, especially as Hapoel Tel Aviv struggled with their deep shots. However, complacency set in, leading to a lapse in focus and a sluggish defense. "We were up 21 and Hapoel were not hitting their shots from deep, so we locked the paint, but somehow we lost focus on defense and got sluggish, which we cannot allow at that point and level," said Vladov. "Andrius coached Hapoel very well; they managed to find good shots and went hot as they also hit some crazy ones from deep range."

Awayteam Resurgence, but Unicaja Malaga overcomes Hapoel Tel Aviv comeback

Despite a rough start and feeling rusty after a break from playing, Andrius Kankevicius's team mounted an impressive comeback in the second half. Hapoel Tel Aviv capitalized on Unicaja Malaga's defensive lapses and managed to hit several critical three-pointers, narrowing the gap significantly. "Congrats to Malaga, deserved win. Felt rusty after a month or so without playing, and that bit me in the first half," said Kankevicius. "Disappointing injuries in forced wins at the end of the season disabled my best three-pointer, Jaylen Hoard, from A+ to D+, which I realized way too late. Anyway, great game, came short in the end, but overall such games are what make us love this game."

Key Statistics

• Points: Unicaja Malaga 76 - Hapoel Tel Aviv 71

• Field Goals: Unicaja Malaga 29/56 (52%) - Hapoel Tel Aviv 26/59 (44%)

• Three-Pointers: Unicaja Malaga 8/16 (50%) - Hapoel Tel Aviv 16/34 (47%)

• Free Throws: Unicaja Malaga 10/16 (62%) - Hapoel Tel Aviv 3/6 (50%)

• Defensive Rebounds: Unicaja Malaga 31 - Hapoel Tel Aviv 24

• Turnovers (Points Off): Unicaja Malaga 12 (15) - Hapoel Tel Aviv 12 (13)

• Bench Points: Unicaja Malaga 9 - Hapoel Tel Aviv 5

Unicaja Malaga's strong start and ability to regain their rhythm in the closing moments of the game were crucial in securing their win. Their next challenge will be against Tenerife in the quarterfinals, promising another exciting matchup.

Looking Forward to the EuroCup Last 8

The quarterfinal clash between Unicaja Malaga and Tenerife is highly anticipated. Both teams have demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy, making this upcoming game one to watch. Viktor Vladov and his team are preparing diligently, aiming to continue their successful run in the Virtual EuroCup.