Israel beat Romania 87-63 in EuroBasket qualifier

JERUSALEM - The Israeli men's national basketball team beat Romania 87-63 in the second round of the 2021 FIBA EuroBasket Qualifiers on Monday in Israel's coastal city of Tel Aviv.

It was Israel's second win in the 4-team Group A, while the Romanians suffered two losses.

The 3,211 fans at Shlomo Group Arena saw a strong Israeli opening (12-4), thanks to Jake Cohen and rebounds by Deni Avdija - both players of Israel's champions Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Romania's Mihai Maciuca helped his teammates cut the deficit in the first quarter, which ended with an Israeli lead of 16-12.

Israel opened well also the second quarter, leading 24-15, but Romania responded with a 10-2 run, on the way to a minimum deficit of 25-26 in the 15th minute.

The home team widened the gap again, leading 39-30. However, a three pointer at the buzzer by Giordan Watson left the visiting team some hopes for the second half (38-43 at halftime).

Israel dominated the third quarter, ending at 65-56, with Cohen's important points, and secured the victory in a one-sided final quarter.

Avdija scored a team-high 21 points, adding 8 rebounds. Cohen finished with 17 points.

Mirel Dragoste led Romania scorers with 11 points. Emanuel Cate added 10 points.

Israel will play their next game at home against Spain, while Romania will host Poland - with both games to be played on November 27.