Hapoel Tel Aviv Lands for Super Cup Clash Against Maccabi Tel Aviv

Hapoel Tel Aviv has returned to Israel following a perfect preseason, winning all six of their exhibition games, ahead of their upcoming Super Cup matchup against Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday. Point guard Thomas Stjanovic spoke upon the team's arrival, emphasizing the value of their preparation.

"The preparation helped us, every game gave us something different," Stjanovic stated. "The last two games were at a high level, against good teams. It showed us many things. Personally, it was great to meet everyone, to get to know everyone. As a point guard, you need to know. I am very happy with the games we played, we won everything and more importantly, we prepared ourselves for what is most important, and that starts on Thursday."

Stjanovic highlighted the team's talent and the need for defensive focus and ball sharing. "We have a very talented team, you saw that here last season too, it was hard to play against Hapoel, there are many tools. We need to be focused on defense and share the ball, if we do that, we will achieve success."

He also acknowledged the experience within the team, mentioning Vasilije Micić's two EuroLeague titles, and stressed the importance of cohesion and health for success in both the EuroLeague and the domestic league. "We need to put the pieces together, be healthy and build something. The EuroLeague is a very tough league, many teams can do it, I think we need to take it day by day, every game is important. It's important for this team, to work not only for the EuroLeague but also for the league. There are many players here, it's important that everything comes together in both competitions."

Looking ahead to the derby against Maccabi, Stjanovic described it as a "final" for Hapoel and a crucial test. "On Thursday there will be a derby and many told me what it means. Every derby against Maccabi is a final for Hapoel. It will be a good test for us to see where we are right now. They have also made many changes, it will be a good test and I think we are ready. We will of course try to win."

Forward Oz Blayzer also commented on the team's readiness, noting the positive atmosphere and chemistry building among the new players. "We had a good month of preparation. We won the games, the goal is to create chemistry, especially with many new players who need to integrate. We feel good, the guys are good and connected. We are waiting to start the season."