Maccabi Tel Aviv Finds Optimism After Second Straight League Win

Maccabi Tel Aviv secured their second consecutive victory in the Israeli Basketball Premier League on Sunday, defeating Ironi Kiryat Ata 116-89. The win followed a EuroLeague triumph over Valencia earlier in the week, providing significant relief after a difficult start to their European campaign. The team expressed satisfaction with the win, emphasizing their readiness and seriousness in preparation for each game.

Coach Oded Kattash utilized an exceptionally wide rotation, giving substantial playing time to most of the team's roster. Captain John DiBartolomeo led the scoring with a career-high 21 points, all from beyond the arc, including seven three-pointers, complemented by 6 rebounds and 5 assists. T.J. Leaf contributed 17 points, appearing to regain his rhythm, while Armando Bacot added 18 points and 5 rebounds. Newcomer Shane Hunter made a strong debut, recording a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds, impressing the club with his suitability for the team, including the EuroLeague level.

Players Yann Mader, Jalen Hudson, Will Rayman, Daniel Theis, and Ife Lundberg were rested for the game. Kattash indicated that Mader, who sustained a tailbone injury, is expected to return soon for the upcoming game against Real Madrid. He also highlighted the importance of Lundberg, who missed the match due to illness and a minor knee injury.

Maccabi Tel Aviv will now shift their focus back to the EuroLeague, traveling to Belgrade on Wednesday for a Thursday matchup against Real Madrid. The team is preparing for another tough Spanish opponent, with emphasis placed on aggression and intensity during their training sessions. Maccabi continues to host its European home games in Belgrade.