There’s something about playing at the Max Stern Athletic Center that brings out the best in the Yeshiva University Maccabees. After a tough road stretch, the Macs returned home Wednesday night for a crucial Skyline Conference showdown against 9-1 Maritime, and they didn’t disappoint. From the opening tip to the final buzzer, they controlled the festivities on Wednesday night, riding a dominant performance from Zevi Samet to an 84-69 win that proved they belong in the four-way 9-2 tie at the top of the Skyline Conference standings.
The reigning Co-Skyline Player of the Week didn’t just score but soared. Samet put on a show, dropping a season-high 37 points while making everything look effortless. Whether it was a deep three, a tough mid-range jumper, or a smooth drive to the hoop, Samet did whatever he wanted. Every time the Privateers tried to build momentum, he shut the door.
Max Zakheim, back in action, made his presence felt with 10 points and a few key assists, while Yoav Oselka added 11, including a thunderous dunk that got the crowd on its feet. There was also the enormous presence of Luke Cronin, who owned the glass all night, grabbing 10 rebounds and ensuring Maritime never got easy second-chance points.
Zevi Samet dropped 37 points as the Macs defeated Maritime 84-69 on Wednesday night, moving into a four way tie atop the Skyline Conference. (Photo Credit: Akiva Poppers/MacsLive)
How It Happened:
- The game started with a classic Samet layup, but Maritime came out firing, going on an 8-0 run to grab an early lead. Yeshiva didn’t panic. Zakheim and Samet responded, and just like that, the Macs were back on top.
- Midway through the first half, with the game tied at 23-23, it felt like a battle. Both teams locked in defensively, and for a few minutes, neither side could buy a bucket. That’s when Samet commanded the rock, drilling a three to break the drought and spark a YU run. By halftime, the Macs had built a 44-37 lead and never looked back.
- The second half was all Yeshiva. Cronin opened the scoring with a layup, and moments later, Oselka jammed one through the cylinders, sending the place into delirium. The Macs built their lead to double digits and never let Maritime get close again. The final minutes were a formality, as Yeshiva played smart, controlled basketball to lock up a well-earned win.
Zevi Samet Took Over:
When the Macs needed a spark, Samet delivered. His season-high 37 points set the tone, and every time Maritime tried to claw back, he had an answer. Big shots, clutch moments—Samet was unstoppable.
Winning the Paint Battle:
Luke Cronin anchored the defense with 10 rebounds and a key block, while the Macs did a much better job protecting the rim and finishing inside. Maritime couldn’t get the easy looks they’re used to, and YU made them pay for it.
Strong Second-Half Surge:
The Macs went into halftime with momentum and did not let it slip. A fast start, highlighted by an Oselka dunk that had the crowd buzzing, stretched the lead, and it was a Macs rout from there.
For Yeshiva (12-8, 9-2 Skyline) :
- Zevi Samet lit up the scoreboard with a season-high 37 points, leading the Macs' offensive attack.
- Luke Cronin dominated the glass, pulling down 10 rebounds while adding 6 assists to fuel YU’s transition game.
- The Macs' defense stepped up, with Oselka and Zakheim combining for five steals to disrupt Maritime’s offense.
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