Maccabi Tel Aviv Coach Addresses Pierre Henry's Arrival Amidst Controversy
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Maccabi Tel Aviv coach Oded Katash addressed the controversial arrival of guard Pierre Henry for a tryout, stating the decision was planned long before the current season. Henry, who is serving a FIBA suspension until January 2027 for doping violations, will join practices but cannot play in official games. The team, which has struggled this season, hopes to announce further reinforcements soon.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Maccabi Tel Aviv coach Oded Katash confirmed Pierre Henry's arrival for a tryout, calling it pre-planned.
- Pierre Henry is currently serving a FIBA suspension for doping violations until January 2027.
- Henry will join Maccabi Tel Aviv practices starting November 13 but cannot play official games.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv has had a difficult start to the season with a 2-8 EuroLeague record.
- The team faces Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Winner Cup final on Monday.
Maccabi Tel Aviv coach Oded Katash commented on the arrival of guard Pierre Henry for a tryout, stating, "I heard noises, we planned this long before." He clarified that discussions about Henry began last year, predating the current season's struggles. The team currently holds a 2-8 record in the EuroLeague and a 2-2 record in the Israeli league. Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to face Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Winner Cup final on Monday, aiming to end a losing streak and secure another title.
Henry, an American point guard who has not played in four years, is expected to arrive in Israel this week and join team practices on Friday, November 13th. His arrival comes despite a significant suspension from FIBA for doping violations, handed down in January 2023. He is banned from official games until January 13, 2027. Despite this, Katash indicated that the team is looking to add another guard and hopes to make an announcement soon regarding reinforcements.
Katash emphasized that the team's interest in Henry was established long before the current season and was not a reaction to recent performance. He expressed confidence in his relationship with Henry and Claudio Coldebella's connection with the player. Henry will participate in practices under Katash's guidance but will be ineligible for official matches until his suspension concludes.
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