European Media Stunned by Maccabi Tel Aviv's Poor EuroLeague Start

Maccabi Tel Aviv has begun its EuroLeague season with two consecutive losses, prompting surprise and criticism from European sports media. The Israeli basketball club, which had high expectations for the current season, now stands at a 0-2 record after painful defeats against ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne and Besiktas.

Spanish journalist Gerard Solé of DAZN Spain expressed astonishment, noting that while other teams like Baskonia are struggling, Maccabi's situation is "another league." He highlighted the "drama" of their 0-2 start, particularly after a one-sided loss to Besiktas.

Turkish media outlets were particularly vocal. TRT Spor celebrated Besiktas's critical win, pointing out that just as Anadolu Efes set a three-point record against Maccabi, Besiktas also broke club records for three-pointers (17) and points in a EuroLeague game, attributing it to Maccabi's "easy defense." Pianetabasket described the game as "controlled from start to finish by Besiktas," emphasizing their dominance in pace, physicality, and accuracy for the entire forty minutes.

Mackolik reported that Besiktas "easily" defeated Maccabi, breaking scoring records in the process. Turkish reporter Ferhat Yilmaz added that the victory was immensely valuable for Besiktas, boosting their confidence and sending a clear message to rivals, even noting that some Maccabi fans in the stands were cheering at moments.