Tony Parker began his EuroLeague coaching career with a victory as LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne defeated Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv 84-74 at LDLC Arena on Thursday. ASVEL used a strong three-point shooting display and physical defense to withstand Maccabi’s second-half comeback and secure its first win over the Israeli club in 11 meetings.
Parker, one of the most decorated point guards in European and NBA history, watched his revamped ASVEL squad overcome Maccabi’s second-half comeback attempt to end a 10-game losing streak against the Israeli club.
The former San Antonio Spurs star had admitted to feeling the anticipation before his first EuroLeague game on the sideline.
“I can feel the adrenaline, as it’s my first game. Let’s start the season in the right way,” Parker said before tipoff.
His team did exactly that.
ASVEL established control through aggressive defense and efficient three-point shooting, building a double-digit advantage before halftime. The hosts eventually led by 14 points before Maccabi responded and cut into the deficit, but ASVEL regained control in the fourth quarter and closed out the victory.
Jae Crowder led the way with 19 points, adding four assists while shooting 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. The 36-year-old forward finished with a performance index rating of 25 and provided the veteran presence expected from one of ASVEL’s most notable offseason additions.
Patty Mills, who previously played alongside Parker with the Spurs, added 15 points, while 19-year-old Marc-Owen Fodzo Dada made an impressive contribution with 14 points.
ASVEL’s biggest advantage came from outside. The French team converted 16 of 34 three-point attempts, good for 47.1%, compared with Maccabi’s 7-of-29 shooting from long range.
The hosts also made 20 assists while committing 15 turnovers, using their speed and physicality to keep Maccabi from sustaining its comeback.
Maccabi received 15 points from Justin Hoard, while Roman Sorkin and Yam Madar each added 13. The visitors were more efficient inside the arc, shooting 61.8% on two-point attempts, but their poor three-point shooting proved costly.
ASVEL had a number of players contribute across the rotation, with David Lighty adding 10 points, while Hugo Besson and Nate Sestina combined for 11 more. The balance allowed Parker’s team to withstand Maccabi’s push and maintain its advantage down the stretch.
Parker was pleased with the way his players responded after a difficult preseason.
“I’m super happy with the guys, they’ve been working so hard at practice. For me, it’s great too. We have a long way to go, it’s just one win,” Parker said. “But, for the confidence, it’s good to start the season the right way, especially at home, for the fans.”
ASVEL now faces another major test next Wednesday when it travels to Athens to meet Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, which opened the season with a 91-72 victory over Paris Basketball.
Maccabi will look to bounce back at home against Besiktas Istanbul on the same night.
