Maccabi Tel Aviv Coach Katash Welcomes EuroLeague Officials Amidst Dominant League Opener

Maccabi Tel Aviv launched their 2026/27 Israeli Basketball League season with a decisive 120-93 victory over Hapoel Galil Elyon at Menora Mivtachim Arena on Saturday. Following the game, coach Oded Katash expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, highlighting their strong defense and offensive execution. He noted the team's high shooting percentages contributed to the lopsided score, acknowledging it was higher than anticipated but attributing it to the balls going in.

Katash also commented on the presence of senior EuroLeague officials at the game, stating it was "excellent" they were there and that their experience, along with that of the fans, helps convey that life in Israel is not more dangerous than elsewhere, like Dubai. He expressed hope that their positive experience would influence decisions regarding the return of EuroLeague games to Israel.

Player Kithon Wallace echoed the positive sentiment, describing the win as a good start to the season and emphasizing the team's strong collective play and quick control of the game. He stressed the need to continue building on this momentum and maintaining self-belief.

Wallace also spoke about the importance of bringing the EuroLeague back to Israel for the fans and the city, noting the impact of fan support on their game. He mentioned that the team had presented Katash with a cake earlier that day.

Conversely, Hapoel Galil Elyon coach Idan Avshalom described the first half as unpleasant and a new experience for many of his players. While acknowledging some improvement in the second half, he admitted the team quickly deviated from their game plan. Avshalom expressed confidence that his team would perform better in future matchups and praised his players for showing character and not giving up, despite the loss.