Real Madrid secured an 86-82 win over Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv in Game 1 of their best-of-five series on Wednesday night at Movistar Arena, overcoming the early loss of Walter Tavares.
The Spanish side played most of the game without its defensive anchor, yet maintained control through three quarters behind disciplined offense and strong ball movement. Madrid finished the first quarter with a 27-18 lead, recording eight assists without a turnover.
Facu Campazzo set the tone early by attacking instead of deferring, scoring 13 points in the opening period with four three-pointers. He ended the night with 21 points on 6-of-9 shooting from deep, though he recorded just one assist, matching his season-low.
Usman Garuba provided key minutes off the bench, contributing across categories with energy on both ends. His early impact helped stabilize Madrid’s frontcourt rotation after Tavares exited.
Hapoel found its advantage inside through Dan Oturu, who dominated the paint throughout the game. The center finished with 20 points on 8-of-9 shooting and pulled down 17 rebounds, setting a playoff record under the current format and posting a performance index rating of 38.
Despite Oturu’s presence, Madrid controlled the tempo through the third quarter and built a commanding 82-64 lead with just over four minutes remaining. Their 21 assists to eight turnovers reflected efficient execution against Hapoel’s defensive schemes.
The visitors responded with a late 18-4 run, fueled by Antonio Blakeney’s perimeter shooting. Blakeney scored a game-high 25 points and knocked down consecutive three-pointers to cut the deficit to four in the final minute.
Hapoel had multiple chances to tie or further reduce the margin in the closing seconds, but missed three straight attempts from beyond the arc, including shots from Blakeney, Ish Wainright and Chris Jones.
The home team shot 50% from two-point range and converted 90% from the free-throw line, key factors in maintaining their lead despite the fourth-quarter drop-off.
Game 2 is scheduled for Friday in Madrid, where adjustments in the paint and perimeter defense are expected to shape the next outcome.
