Otef Darom defeated Maccabi Kiryat Motzkin 87-83 in an Israel Basketball League matchup on Friday, October 23, 2026. The home side used a late fourth-quarter surge to turn a close game into a hard-fought four-point victory.

Match overview

Otef Darom came out with strong defensive intensity, forcing Kiryat Motzkin into several early turnovers and building a modest first-quarter lead. Kiryat Motzkin settled down behind patient half-court offense and accurate outside shooting, clawing back into the game before halftime. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third quarter, with neither able to create meaningful separation.

The final period was the most competitive stretch of the night. Otef Darom found second-chance points through offensive rebounds and made key free throws in the final minute. Kiryat Motzkin had opportunities to tie the game late, but a missed three-pointer and a costly turnover allowed Otef Darom to secure the 87-83 win.

Key moments

• Otef Darom opened the fourth quarter with an 8-0 run to take control of the game.
• Kiryat Motzkin answered with back-to-back three-pointers to cut the lead to two points.
• Otef Darom sealed the result with defensive stops and free throws in the final 30 seconds.

Tactical story

Otef Darom’s advantage came on the glass. The home team attacked the offensive boards aggressively and generated extra possessions that proved crucial in a game decided by small margins. Defensively, Otef Darom mixed zone and man-to-man looks to disrupt Kiryat Motzkin’s rhythm, especially in the closing minutes.

Kiryat Motzkin stayed in the game with perimeter shooting and quick ball movement, but its inability to secure defensive rebounds in the fourth quarter hurt. The visitors also struggled at the free-throw line in the final period, while Otef Darom converted when it mattered. The tactical battle was close, but the home team’s physicality and late composure made the difference.

Standout performers

Amit Azulay led Otef Darom with 20 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the paint and giving his team a consistent interior presence. Yossi Tal added 17 points and six assists, while Erez Ben Hamo contributed 14 points off the bench. For Maccabi Kiryat Motzkin, Eyal Shachar scored 23 points and grabbed seven rebounds, and Tomer Adler added 16 points with four three-pointers.

Season impact

The win strengthens Otef Darom’s position in the Israel Basketball League standings and gives the club momentum heading into its next fixtures. Kiryat Motzkin will rue a missed chance on the road, especially after staying close for most of the night. The loss highlights the importance of late-game rebounding and free-throw shooting in a league where games are often decided by a handful of possessions.