Maccabi Tel Aviv Finds Winning Formula in Team Play
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Maccabi Tel Aviv defeated Hapoel Jerusalem to reach the Winner Cup final, with players and coaches emphasizing improved team play and defense as key to overcoming a deficit. The team also looks to build on this momentum for upcoming EuroLeague games.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Maccabi Tel Aviv beat Hapoel Jerusalem to reach the Winner Cup final.
- The team's improved defense and collective effort were crucial to the win.
- Key players like Lundberg and Brissett stepped up in the second half.
- Maccabi aims to carry this momentum into their next EuroLeague game.
- Daniel Theis's ankle injury status will be assessed before Thursday's game.
Maccabi Tel Aviv secured a crucial victory against Hapoel Jerusalem in the Israeli basketball "Clasico," advancing to the Winner Cup final where they will face Hapoel Tel Aviv. Despite a slow start and low shooting percentages, mirroring recent games, Maccabi managed to turn the tide by executing strong defensive plays that stifled Jerusalem's offense. Coach Oded Katash acknowledged the team's initial struggles, stating, "It took us time to crack and find the right way." He reflected on recent EuroLeague losses, attributing them partly to a lack of mental energy and the absence of a crowd, which he hopes the win will help restore.
The team's improved collective effort was evident, with players displaying renewed energy that shifted the game's momentum after overcoming a double-digit deficit in the first half. The coaching staff emphasized the importance of team play, which they believe impacts all aspects of performance. "It was one momentum that we capitalized on that brought the win," a club source noted, stressing the need for continuous improvement.
Key individual performances included Iffe Lundberg, who came alive in the second half with four three-pointers and four assists, and Oshae Brissett, who also contributed significantly in the latter half with four three-pointers and 17 points. Both players reportedly gained renewed confidence. Jalen Hudson added 13 points and 6 rebounds, while Roman Sorkin scored 16 points. Keaton Wallace was also highlighted for his crucial plays in the second quarter, including two three-pointers and a field goal, which helped Maccabi narrow the gap and stay in contention.
Maccabi also improved their ball security, committing only nine turnovers compared to previous games' double-digit figures. The team is now preparing for a EuroLeague game against Milan on Thursday, aiming for their first European win and to overcome a disappointing season start. The status of center Daniel Theis, who has been nursing an ankle injury, will be evaluated before the game, with the club aiming for his swift but careful return. John DiBartolomeo is returning from the United States, while Bonzie Colson and Armando Bacot are expected to play.
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