In a tightly contested game that came down to the final possession, Maccabi utilized a "new defensive identity" to stifle the defending champions.
Maccabi Tel Aviv and Panathinaikos BC most recently faced off in the 2025–26 EuroLeague regular season, split their season series with one win each. In their last encounter on January 22, 2026, Maccabi Tel Aviv secured a narrow 75–71 victory at the Menora Mivtachim Arena, led by 16 points from Gabriel Lundberg. Maccabi Tel Aviv Thu, Jan 22 Maccabi Tel Aviv won! Panathinaikos In a tightly contested game that came down
Jerian Grant led with 14 points, followed by TJ Shorts II and Nikos Rogkavopoulos with 13 points each. In a tightly contested game that came down
Maccabi Tel Aviv won 75–71 at home.