Former Player Urges Yam Madar to Stay at Hapoel Amid Coaching Praise for Oded Katash

Former basketball player Tomer Steinhauer spoke on 103fm about the ongoing drama surrounding Yam Madar's potential move from Hapoel to Maccabi Tel Aviv. Steinhauer advised Madar to remain with Hapoel, emphasizing the club's unique identity and passionate fan base, especially given the current tensions with supporters. He highlighted Madar's status as a symbol of Hapoel and warned that a transfer could add pressure during an already difficult period.

Steinhauer praised the opportunity for a player like Madar to work under coach Oded Katash, calling it a dream scenario. He described Katash as one of the best coaches in Europe and a remarkable person, noting that Madar likely idolizes him. The former center also criticized Hapoel's management for not engaging in thorough discussions with key figures like Ofer Yanai and coach Itudis to reassure Madar about his role and the team's direction.

He stressed that Madar and teammate Micić should be guaranteed leadership roles without competition from other point guards. Steinhauer acknowledged that Madar's contract situation is now a professional matter but condemned the humiliation Madar endured this season, stating it was undeserved. He urged Hapoel's management to commit to building the team around Madar to retain him and support his development.