Maccabi Tel Aviv Aims for Aggression in EuroLeague Clash with Besiktas

Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to host Besiktas in their second EuroLeague game on Wednesday evening, part of a double-game week that includes a Friday road match against Panathinaikos in Greece. The team is looking to rebound from a disappointing opening loss to Villeurbanne, where their defensive performance was particularly weak. Coach Oded Katash emphasized the need for a more aggressive and physical approach, stating, "We need to be more aggressive, and that's something we've been lacking in our character. Be a little meaner." He acknowledged that the team's current style is not yet polished but stressed the necessity of increased physicality against a fast-paced Besiktas team that has troubled other strong opponents.

In terms of roster changes, T.J. Leaf is expected to make his EuroLeague debut this season, having not played in the previous game. J.J. Clark, who saw second-half action against Villeurbanne after returning from a hip injury, is anticipated to receive a more significant role. Captain John DiBartolomeo will miss the game due to his brother's wedding.

Due to the ongoing security situation in Israel, Maccabi Tel Aviv is playing its home EuroLeague games in Belgrade, Serbia, for the second consecutive season. The club is actively working to bring games back to Israel and expects the EuroLeague CEO to visit soon to assess the situation firsthand. Concurrently, Maccabi is in discussions with Cypriot authorities to potentially relocate their home games from Belgrade to Cyprus. This move is hoped to ease player recovery between EuroLeague and Israeli league games and make attendance more accessible for fans.