Hapoel Tel Aviv Advances to Winner Cup Final After Thrilling Victory

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a spot in the Winner Cup final by defeating Nes Ziona 79-76 in a close game at the Toto Hall in Holon. The team will face the winner of the match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem.

After a perfect week in the EuroLeague, Hapoel Tel Aviv established an early 8-0 lead. Although they finished the first quarter trailing, they built a ten-point advantage at the start of the fourth quarter. Despite falling behind by one point, Antonio Blakeney took control, scoring nine points in the final quarter and finishing with 21 points overall. Wainright and Eugene German each contributed 17 points, with German hitting five three-pointers.

Bruno Caboclo, who started the game, reflected on a satisfying week. "It wasn't an easy game. We did a good job even when we lost the lead. I'm proud of the team," he said. Caboclo mentioned that people in the club were happy for him after his performance against Real Madrid, where he made five out of five three-point attempts. "The key for me is to continue playing well and have continuity," he added.

Looking ahead to their upcoming game against Valencia on Thursday, Caboclo acknowledged it would be challenging, noting that Spanish teams play a different style of basketball. He expressed his desire to play and contribute, and stated he doesn't mind who they face in the final, as long as they win, possibly preferring Hapoel Jerusalem.

In other team news, Jacob Toppin is reportedly feeling better and may be available for the game against Valencia as his naturalization process nears completion. Amir Coffey is expected to remain sidelined due to a calf tear. Hapoel Tel Aviv will stay in Israel until Wednesday before traveling for their away game against Valencia. The team is also scheduled to hold a memorial event on Monday evening for the victims of the October 7th massacre.