Hapoel Tel Aviv Stuns Panathinaikos in EuroLeague Upset

Hapoel Tel Aviv achieved one of their most significant victories in recent European competitions, defeating Panathinaikos 89-79 on the road. This win marks the first loss of the season for Panathinaikos in the EuroLeague and propels Hapoel Tel Aviv to a 4-2 record, placing them among the top teams in the standings. Player Zach LeDay stated that this victory was the reason he joined the team, highlighting the quality of players and the importance of winning such games. He emphasized the team's ability to stay calm, trust each other, and focus on the small details, suggesting they can be one of Europe's best when playing defense.

Coach Dimitris Itoudis praised his players for their composure and belief, noting that consistency leads to good outcomes. He pointed out that after taking a 71-61 lead, the team slowed the pace and adopted a more aggressive offensive strategy. Itoudis also stressed the importance of team solidarity, stating that it makes a team unstoppable. He reminded the team not to have short memories, referencing an earlier loss to Bayern Munich, and expressed satisfaction with players understanding game momentum.

Itoudis acknowledged Panathinaikos as a formidable opponent from whom they are learning, noting a good collaborative relationship and idea exchange. He believes Panathinaikos has the potential to go all the way in the competition. The coach concluded by expressing his desire for Hapoel Tel Aviv to realize their potential, especially after securing four wins in two double-game weeks.

Player Elijah Bryant added that the team arrived with confidence, trusting each other and remaining focused on the win. He echoed the coach's sentiment about mutual trust being paramount and affirmed the team's continued focus moving forward.