Maccabi Tel Aviv Defeats Aris Thessaloniki in Preseason Tune-Up

Maccabi Tel Aviv secured a 92-87 victory over Aris Thessaloniki in a preseason exhibition game held in Nicosia as part of a preparation tournament. This marked Maccabi's first match against a non-Israeli opponent in their current training cycle.

The team, navigating internal management disputes, aims to build chemistry and performance ahead of the upcoming season. Following a loss to Bnei Herzliya in their initial friendly, Maccabi had previously defeated Maccabi Rishon LeZion 95-81. Players Yam Madar and Daniel Theis debuted in that prior game, with Madar scoring seven points and Theis adding four.

For the game against Aris, Maccabi rested Daniel Theis, Will Rayman, Gur Lavi, and Jaron Johnson. The team started strong, with Bonzie Colson leading the offense early and T.J. Leaf making his return to the court for the first time since February. Leaf contributed points in the second quarter, capitalizing on assists from Jalen Adams and Ido David, while Colson extended the lead with a four-point play. Despite efforts from Thanasis Antetokounmpo and A.J. Ledbetter for Aris, Maccabi maintained a 50-37 halftime advantage.

Aris mounted a comeback in the third quarter, outscoring Maccabi 27-14 to take a slim 64-63 lead. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Vasilis Toliopoulos were key to their surge. However, Maccabi rallied in the fourth quarter. Crucial plays from Colson and Oz Blezer, along with a late steal and dunk by Jalen Adams, sealed the 92-87 win for Maccabi Tel Aviv.