Israeli Basketball Teams Face Uncertain EuroLeague Season Amidst Home Game Uncertainty

The upcoming EuroLeague basketball season is set to begin with both Israeli teams, Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv, facing significant questions regarding their home game locations due to the ongoing security situation. As of now, Maccabi is slated to play in Serbia and Hapoel in Bulgaria, though both clubs are actively working to bring their games back to Israel. Maccabi Tel Aviv has even announced that EuroLeague CEO Dejan Bodiroga will visit Israel to discuss the potential return of games, while also reportedly considering Cyprus as an alternative venue. The return of home games could be a major boost, as Maccabi had a perfect 6-0 record at home last season. Hapoel is scheduled to play three of its first five games at home, with five of its nineteen home games occurring before November.

Both teams are looking to improve their three-point shooting, a weakness last season. Maccabi shot 35.3% from three, below the EuroLeague average, while Hapoel shot 36.9%, which was considered good but low in volume. This summer, both teams acquired forwards known for their shooting ability, such as Zach LeDay and Bonzie Colson for Maccabi, and Amir Coffey and Kiton Wallace, who are expected to contribute from beyond the arc. The addition of reliable three-point shooters could significantly open up offensive possibilities, especially in pick-and-roll situations.

Continuity is another key factor for both Tel Aviv clubs. Maccabi retained most of its core players from last season, with only Tamir Blatt and Liel Ohayon departing. Hapoel managed to keep key players like Vasilije Micić, Elijah Bryant, and Antonio Blakeney. While both teams made additions, they are largely seen as upgrades rather than complete overhauls. However, questions remain about Maccabi's lack of a clear "go-to" scorer and Hapoel's aging point guard tandem of Micić and Thomas Heurtel. Despite these concerns, both teams enter the season in a healthier position than in previous years, with Maccabi benefiting from coaching stability under Oded Kattash and Hapoel having a more settled roster.

The primary question for Maccabi is identifying its main offensive threat. Throughout its successful history, the team's offense has been defined by its star players. This season, it remains unclear who will consistently lead the scoring, with players like Jalen Hurd, Bonzie Colson, and Roman Sorkin capable of scoring but not consistently reaching high point totals together. The team's success may depend on a significant leap from guards like J.J. Clark or Yam Madar, or a highly refined offensive system.

For Hapoel Tel Aviv, the crucial factor will be the performance of Vasilije Micić. While the team has a solid core and a structured offense under coach Dimitris Itoudis, Micić's effectiveness will be paramount. He has shown increased aggressiveness in preseason games, driving to the basket more frequently. If Micić can maintain this level of play and contribute more effectively, it could dramatically elevate Hapoel's ceiling, potentially making them EuroLeague contenders. The addition of Zach LeDay is also expected to provide a much-needed stretch-four option.