Hapoel Tel Aviv Advances to Winner Cup Final After Thrilling Victory

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a spot in the Winner Cup final on Saturday, 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 trailed at the end of the first quarter, the team built a ten-point advantage by the start of the fourth. Despite falling behind by one point, Antonio Blakeney took control of the game, scoring nine points in the final quarter and a total of 21 for the game. Isaiah Wienright and Eugene German each contributed 17 points, with German hitting five three-pointers.

Player 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 the club celebrated his performance against Real Madrid, where he made all five of his three-point attempts. "The key is to keep playing well and have continuity," he added. Looking ahead to their upcoming game against Valencia, Caboclo acknowledged it would be challenging, noting that Spanish teams play a different style of basketball. He expressed a desire to play and contribute, and stated he doesn't mind who they face in the final, but wants to win, possibly against Jerusalem.

In team news, Jacob Toppin is reportedly feeling better and may be available for the game against Valencia, with his naturalization process nearing completion. Amir Coffey is expected to miss the game due to a calf tear. Hapoel Tel Aviv will remain 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.