Hapoel Tel Aviv Dominates Maccabi Tel Aviv in First of Three Derby Clashes

Hapoel Tel Aviv decisively defeated Maccabi Tel Aviv 105-87 in the first of three city derbies scheduled within 11 days. The victory established Hapoel as the dominant team in Tel Aviv for the evening, with a remarkable offensive performance, including a club-record 19 three-pointers. Vassilije Micic was the standout player for Hapoel, setting a personal club record with 9 three-pointers and scoring 31 points. Antonio Blakeney contributed 18 points, and Tamir Blatt had a successful debut for Hapoel against his former team, adding 9 points. For Maccabi, Yam Madar scored 18 points, but it wasn't enough to prevent their fifth consecutive loss across all competitions. The game started at a high pace, with both teams exchanging early three-pointers. Hapoel built an early lead, fueled by Amir Coffey and a 9-0 run, ending the first quarter up 26-22. The scoring pace continued in the second quarter, with both Madar and Blatt hitting from beyond the arc. Hapoel's defense struggled against Maccabi's inside play, but Hapoel maintained their lead, extending it to 59-47 by halftime, aided by Blakeney and Micic's scoring. Hapoel continued their dominance in the third quarter, with Coffey and Micic pushing the lead to 16 points. Madar incurred his third foul, and Maccabi struggled to find offensive or defensive solutions. Micic reached 20 points, and Hapoel closed the quarter with a 24-16 advantage, leading 83-63. In the final quarter, Maccabi attempted to close the gap, with Madar reaching double digits and Colson and Wallace contributing. However, Micic remained unstoppable, securing his ninth three-pointer and a career-high in league play. Hapoel maintained control, securing the convincing win and avenging their Super Cup loss. Micic finished with 31 points and 9 three-pointers, Blakeney added 18, Tai Odiase scored 17, and Blatt had a strong debut. Madar led Maccabi with 18 points, Sorkin had 15, and Colson 14. Maccabi's struggles were compounded by the absence of J.J. Clark and Jalen Hudson, and the non-registration of Daniel Theis. This marks Maccabi's fifth straight loss, highlighting their disappointing season start and need for reinforcement, amidst ongoing club issues. Hapoel enters the next two derbies with significant confidence.