Hapoel Jerusalem Coach Obradović Furious Despite Winning Streak
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
Hapoel Jerusalem defeated Hapoel HaEmek 65-59 to remain undefeated in the Winner League, but coach Saša Obradović was highly critical of his team's performance, calling it their fourth straight poor showing. He cited a lack of focus and intensity, despite the team's dominance in rebounding. Guard Jared Harper is nearing a return after recovering from injury.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Hapoel Jerusalem coach Saša Obradović criticized his team's performance despite a 65-59 win.
- The team maintained a perfect 5-0 record in the Winner League.
- Obradović cited a lack of focus and intensity, calling the play "far from basketball."
- Jerusalem dominated rebounding, securing 49-30 advantage.
- Guard Jared Harper is nearing a return to play after injury.
Hapoel Jerusalem secured a narrow 65-59 victory over Hapoel HaEmek at the Pais Arena on Sunday, maintaining their perfect 5-0 record in the Winner League. Despite the win, coach Saša Obradović expressed extreme dissatisfaction with his team's performance, calling it their fourth consecutive poor showing.
"We consider ourselves good, we feel we can win every game, and give our rivals a head start, but it won't always be like this," Obradović stated at the post-game press conference. He criticized the team's lack of focus and concentration, noting the high number of technical fouls received as evidence. "We played at 80 percent, sometimes 90, it's simply not enough. We need to respect the opponent and ourselves. What we saw tonight was far from the basketball we want to play, far from basketball at all."
The team shot just 36.8% from the field, making only 21 of 57 shots. However, they dominated the boards, outrebounding their opponents 49-30 and grabbing 19 offensive rebounds, which were crucial to overcoming their offensive struggles.
Obradović's frustration extended to the locker room, where he reportedly yelled at his players about their attitude hindering their season goals. The team faces a significant challenge next Saturday against Maccabi Tel Aviv.
On a positive note, guard Jared Harper is progressing well in his recovery. According to team officials, Harper has returned to contact drills and is nearing a return to the court.
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