Maccabi Tel Aviv braces for Game 2 of finals against Hapoel Tel Aviv

After Tuesday night’s big win, Maccabi Tel Aviv returns to Menora Mivtachim Arena, this time as the visitor, for Game 2 of the Israeli Basketball Premier League final series against Hapoel Tel Aviv. The series is continuing after Maccabi’s 1-0 lead, but coach Oded Katash stressed that the first game gives no real advantage heading into the next meeting.

Katash said there was little preparation time because the teams are playing every other day, so Maccabi had only a tactical practice session. He said the team wants to make several adjustments and must be ready for any scenario. “It is clear to all of us that the first game was exceptional for us, but it was unusual, whether in turnovers or points off turnovers,” he said. “It is only 0-1, and we have no advantage for tomorrow.”

The coach added that Hapoel is likely to respond differently in Game 2. “We trust the players,” Katash said. “We need to be ready for Hapoel’s reaction. The atmosphere will be a little different. We will need to be very focused and react in real time.” He also said Jimmy Clark is fine after suffering a cramp, describing it as “a hard blow” rather than a serious injury.

Guard Lonnie Walker said Maccabi expects changes from Hapoel and must stay focused on its own game plan, while keeping the defense from Game 1. He said the team can improve as a unit, noting that the first game looked good but had lulls, especially in the third quarter. He also emphasized rebounding and ball movement, saying Maccabi’s identity is unselfish basketball and that continuing that approach is key to winning Game 2.