Hapoel Tel Aviv Advances to Winner Cup Final, Blakey Eyes Rematch with Maccabi

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a spot in the Winner Cup final with a hard-fought 79-76 victory over Ironi Ness Ziona. The team played with a depleted roster but managed to overcome their opponents, advancing to face the winner of the game between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem.

Coach Dimitris Itoudis acknowledged Ness Ziona's preparation advantage due to Hapoel's shorter turnaround. He emphasized the team's deep roster and ongoing efforts to build chemistry. Itoudis also discussed upcoming EuroLeague challenges, specifically analyzing Valencia's fast-paced play and their new point guard.

Player Antwaine Blakey highlighted the trust placed in him by coaches and teammates, enabling him to make clutch plays. While satisfied with his performance, Blakey expressed a desire for personal improvement and better shooting consistency. He also stated his preference for facing Maccabi Tel Aviv in the final, motivated by a desire for revenge after a significant loss earlier in the season.

Ness Ziona's coach, Paul Corlissaro, attributed the loss to free throws, identifying them as a major difference in the close game. He noted his team's need for better execution in critical moments. Despite the defeat, Corlissaro expressed pride in his team's fight and continuous improvement, especially while playing without two starters.