Tier I Qualifier Preview: #2 Shalhevet vs #15 MTA

The #2-seeded Shalhevet Firehawks will face off against the host #15-seeded MTA Lions in a Tier I qualifier on Thursday at 5:30pm in the MSAC.

Shalhevet enters Sarachek with momentum under Coach Tim Tucker, having played their best basketball down the stretch to finish their season with a 22-8 record. After a disappointing upset loss to Magen David at last year’s tournament, the Firehawks are hungry for redemption. They are led by Sam Jacobson, a dominant force in the paint and a matchup nightmare for any defense. Yakov Liberman orchestrates the offense and sets a physical tone defensively, supported by the offensive impact of Michael Dweck and the high-energy defense of sophomore Benny Portnoy.

After a disappointing quarterfinal exit in last year’s tournament as the #2 seed. The Firehawks return to Sarachek in familiar territory, seeking to write a different story. Their title quest begins against the hosts #15 MTA in what’s sure to be a hostile environment. (Photo Credit: ShalhevetBB/ Instagram)

MTA, the tournament hosts, look to capitalize on home-court advantage following a rollercoaster season. Coach Ushie Selevan’s Lions are led by Yeshiva League All-Star Gavi Engel, a standout rebounder and defensive anchor. Point guard Yishai Neiss serves as the primary ball-handler and press breaker, while Andi Richman and Efraim Avramov provide key depth for a team looking to pull off a signature opening-day upset. 

How To Watch:

Tip-Off is at 5:30PM from the MSAC. You can watch the game on MacsLive