Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv showcased an impressive performance in Round 20 of the 2023-24 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season, securing a convincing 95-78 victory over Virtus Segafredo Bologna. The game saw Maccabi, with a 12-8 record, climb into the league's top six.
Wade Baldwin led the charge with 22 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds, steering Maccabi to a crucial head-to-head tiebreaker against Virtus, which dropped to a 14-6 record. He made 6 of 12 two-pointers, 2 of 3 three-pointers, and 4 of 4 free throws, while drawing 4 fouls for a PIR of 29, which was the highest of all players in this round.
Baldwin also won the MVP for Round 20 after leading to an important victory last night, It's the fifth time in his career he has achieved this. Baldwin became the third Maccabi player to claim MVP of the Round honors this season, following Josh Nebo and Bonzie Colson.
The first half was a closely contested affair, ending 46-45 in Maccabi's favor, but the hosts dominated after the break, never allowing Virtus to close the gap.
Key contributions from John DiBartolomeo (16 points), Bonzie Colson (14 points), Roman Sorkin (13 points), and Lorenzo Brown (12 points) showcased Maccabi's balanced offensive approach.
Despite a noteworthy effort from Virtus' Marco Belinelli, who scored 24 points, Maccabi's cohesive teamwork and solid defense proved decisive.
The pivotal third quarter saw Maccabi extend their lead, with DiBartolomeo playing a crucial role. Coach Oded Kattash praised the team's offensive flow and consistency while acknowledging the stark defensive improvement in the second half.
With this victory, Maccabi solidifies its position in the top tier of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague, emphasizing its resilience and competitive prowess in the 2023-24 season.