Maccabi Tel Aviv Coach Katash: EuroLeague Return Is Political

Maccabi Tel Aviv coach Oded Katash spoke about the team's upcoming challenging EuroLeague double week, facing Valencia and Barcelona in Spain. Katash acknowledged the high pace of both opponents and the need for strategic lineup choices to counter it. He expressed hope that recent wins have instilled toughness in his team, but noted that playing away from their home crowd will be a significant test.

Discussing the modern game's high tempo, Katash speculated it might be a trend or a fashion that could change, similar to shifts in center positions. He admitted being personally challenged by the fact that Maccabi has not beaten this particular Barcelona team, expressing a strong desire to win.

Regarding the recent visit of EuroLeague officials to Israel, Katash stated that while the message of wanting to host games was conveyed and the experience was positive, he believes the decision is "more politics." He questioned why games could be played in Dubai but not in Tel Aviv, emphasizing that the players have expressed their desire to return to hosting.

Katash also described the physical toll of consecutive double-week schedules in the EuroLeague as "exhausting" and stressed the need to find the strength to overcome it. Player Will Rayman echoed the sentiment about Barcelona's high pace, emphasizing the need for Maccabi to control the game's tempo, play aggressively, and be physical. Both Katash and Rayman highlighted the significant fan support shown for bringing the EuroLeague back to Tel Aviv, expressing hope for a return to hosting games in Israel.