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. The team is preparing for the upcoming Super Cup against rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv, scheduled for Thursday. Guard Thomas Stastny spoke upon arrival, emphasizing the value of their preparation.

"The preparation helped us, every game gave us something different," Stastny 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."

Stastny highlighted the team's talent, noting that Hapoel was a difficult opponent last season. He stressed the importance of defensive focus and ball sharing for success. "We have a very talented team, you saw it 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."

Looking ahead to the Super Cup, Stastny acknowledged the significance of the derby. "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."

Teammate Oz Blayzer also expressed optimism. "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."