Maccabi Tel Aviv Seeks EuroLeague Turnaround Against Panathinaikos

Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to face Panathinaikos on Friday in their third EuroLeague game of the season, aiming to rebound from two opening losses to Villeurbanne and Besiktas. Players Keaton Wallace and T.J. Leaf addressed the team's challenges ahead of the difficult away game in Greece.

Wallace acknowledged defensive struggles in the initial games, noting that while the offense scored well (93 points in one game), a greater defensive focus is needed. He also pointed out the absence of home crowd energy in Tel Aviv, emphasizing the need to adapt and "play with the cards we have." Wallace expressed anticipation for the game in Athens, calling it a "learning experience" as he has never played there before.

Leaf stressed the importance of increasing intensity and physicality, areas he felt were lacking in the first two matches. He urged the team to be prepared for a tough contest from the outset.

Coach Oded Katash stated that the team does not want to start the EuroLeague season with two losses and that it is their responsibility to respond. He described the upcoming game against Panathinaikos as one of the toughest in the EuroLeague and highlighted the necessity of staying united to improve. Katash specifically mentioned defense as a key area needing significant improvement.