Hapoel Tel Aviv avoided a 3-0 sweep in its playoff series with Maccabi Tel Aviv by making a major strategic change, putting defense at the center of its game plan. The move helped Hapoel control Wednesday’s game from the opening minutes and withstand several Maccabi comeback attempts.
The key adjustment was a shift to bigger, stronger lineups. Oshae Brissett was moved to the 3 spot, with either Tomer Ginat or Oz Blazer at the 4, and Hapoel dropped the three-guard lineups that had been productive on offense but were exposed defensively. Chris Jones was not suited up, and Deandre Cook was included instead because he is bigger, stronger and better on defense, even though he is still learning the offense.
The new approach worked. Hapoel held Maccabi to 36 points in the first half and 74 for the game. Roman Sorkin finished with zero points, although the article suggests fatigue may have been a major factor after a third game in a short stretch and heavy minutes caused by Israel player shortages. Brissett had 10 points and 11 rebounds, but was largely neutralized by Ginat and Blazer.
On offense, Vasilije Micic delivered his best showing, with scoring, assists, playmaking and leadership. The piece says his effort in Israel deserves credit, especially compared with other foreign players who were unwilling or unable to return, and argues that in a first season with Hapoel he could be even better next year. Still, it doubts he can repeat the performance two more times to win the championship, noting that Yam Madar had carried Hapoel in other games. Maccabi, meanwhile, is expected to arrive for the next game with fresh adjustments, while coach Oded Katash remains under pressure to prove his team can finish the series.
