JERUSALEM, July 3 (Xinhua) -- Israeli basketball team beat their Estonian opponents 96-77 at home in Group D of the European qualifiers for the 2023 World Cup on Sunday evening.
Israel, who finished second in the four-team group with a 3-3 record, made it to the second round of the qualifiers, joining Germany who dominated the group with a 5-1 record.
Despite their loss, the Estonians advanced to the second round as well, thanks to Germany's home win 93-83 over Poland, who finished last in the group with a 2-4 record.
Israel, Germany and Estonia will play in the second round's Group J, along with Finland, Slovenia and Sweden, with all results from the first round to be counted.
Among the 24 European teams advancing to the second round, 12 will qualify for the final tournament that will be held in Indonesia, the Philippines and Japan, starting August 25, 2023.
A close first half ended 48-44 for Israel, with Janari Joesaar and Kristian Kullamae keeping Estonia in the game.
Point guard Gal Mekel led Israel to increase the margin to 72-57 at the end of the third quarter before a 10-0 run in the final quarter secured the home win.
Tomer Ginat scored a game-high 17 points for Israel. His teammate Roman Sorkin added 16, while Yovel Zoosman contributed 14 points and 8 rebounds for Israel. Maik Kotsar scored 13 points for Estonia. ■
