Clark Scores at the Buzzer: Maccabi Tel Aviv Defeats Partizan
Tense Match Unfolds
In a thrilling EuroLeague matchup on February 3, 2026, Maccabi Tel Aviv clinched a pivotal victory against Partizan Belgrade, winning 93-95 at Menora Mivtachim Arena in Tel Aviv. Despite struggling defensively for much of the game, Maccabi’s Jimmy Clark delivered a dramatic buzzer-beater that secured the win and kept alive their hopes for a playoff spot.
Defensive Struggles Highlighted
The contest showcased Maccabi’s defensive frailties as they allowed numerous open three-point attempts. Every time Maccabi managed to gain momentum offensively, they struggled to maintain defensive consistency, which enabled Partizan to remain competitive throughout the match.
Head coach Oded Katash’s team now faces a critical road game against city rivals Red Star Belgrade on Friday. A win in that matchup could silence skeptics, considering Maccabi’s challenging season thus far, which still includes a spot in the semi-finals of the cup and a leading position in the local league.
Key Player Performances
Maccabi Tel Aviv’s standout players included both Clark and Isaiah Lundberg, who scored 21 points apiece and contributed with assists-5 for Lundberg and 4 for Clark. Alongside them, Marcio Santos added 17 points, while Roman Sorkin contributed 10 points. Partizan’s Sterling Brown led the scoring for his team with 19 points, alongside 17 points each from Dylan Ostickovsky and Bruno Fernando.
Game Breakdown
First Quarter: Maccabi Leads
Maccabi started the game with strong momentum, overcoming an initial 0-5 deficit to lead 27-22 at the end of the first quarter. A special tribute was held prior to the game recognizing Partizan’s support during recent adverse events in Israel, highlighting the camaraderie in sports amidst challenging times.
Second Quarter: Partizan Takes Control
The second quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with Maccabi briefly extending their lead. However, Partizan executed an impressive 11-0 run, regaining the lead and ultimately finishing the half ahead, 50-48.
Third Quarter: Partizan Maintains Edge
Partizan extended their lead once again in the third quarter, entering the final quarter up by 77-72. Maccabi struggled to find their rhythm, repeatedly subduing their own scoring attempts with defensive lapses.
Fourth Quarter: Dramatic Finish
The final quarter saw Maccabi fighting back. Santos and Lundberg played pivotal roles in the comeback, tying the game with just five minutes remaining. In a nail-biting finale, Jimmy Clark received the ball with just seconds left on the clock. With a deft move, he shook off his defender and converted a jumper as time expired, sealing the 95-93 victory for Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The win propels Maccabi further into contention as they strive to improve their standing in the EuroLeague with only 13 games left in the regular season.
As Maccabi prepares for its next challenge, the atmosphere remains charged with optimism among fans and players alike as they look to capitalize on this much-needed victory.