Hapoel Jerusalem Stays Perfect in League Play

Hapoel Jerusalem maintained its undefeated streak in the Israeli Basketball Premier League, defeating Hapoel Eilat 88-78 on Sunday to hold a 4-0 record. Jaylen Smith led Jerusalem with 18 points, describing the team's success as a result of chemistry and winning.

Smith acknowledged the challenge of Eilat's zone defense, which they hadn't faced often, and noted the absence of key players like Lofton and Lorenzo Brown. He also highlighted the importance of Kenny to their game and the need for others to step up in his absence. Smith added that he aims to be a leader and veteran presence on the team, and looks forward to Jared Harper's return, who he believes can significantly ease his offensive burden.

Coach Sasha Obradovic commented on the team's missed layups but praised their solid offensive output against Eilat's zone. He specifically mentioned Eilat's player Makolum causing problems with his speed. Obradovic stated that the team needs to analyze the game and move forward, anticipating a physical matchup against Aris on Wednesday, who recently defeated Panathinaikos. He also noted that the return of two absent players would add valuable experience and quality.

Obradovic attributed the team's perfect 9-0 record to collective effort, mentioning contributions from David Roddy, Lofton, Shayok Miletic, Yotam Genochi, and Roye Hover, who he said "changed the game with his management." Despite the success, Obradovic expressed a personal aversion to winning too much, citing a "trauma" from the 2017-18 EuroCup season when his team, Kuban, lost the final to David Blatt's Darüşşafaka.

Eilat's coach, Oren Aharoni, whose team fell to a 2-2 record, admitted a poor start and lack of intensity. He acknowledged Jerusalem's ability to exploit multiple weaknesses and stated that his team wasn't focused enough to close the gap. Aharoni credited Jerusalem's strong defense, particularly from their big men, for forcing Eilat into difficult plays.