Hapoel Tel Aviv Declares 'Losers' After Blowing 23-Point Lead in Final

Hapoel Tel Aviv suffered a devastating 86-75 loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Winner Cup final on Monday, squandering a commanding 23-point lead in the third quarter. The defeat dashed their hopes of winning a title for the first time in 33 years. "We are losers, there's no other way to describe this loss," admitted Hapoel Tel Aviv personnel after the game. "It was in our hands. Every time, we reach a big game and then falter. It's like a monkey on our back."

Despite the profound disappointment, owner Ofer Yanai encouraged the players, stating, "If we learn from this game, we will win a title this year. We need to show character." The club is conducting a mid-term review of coach Dimitris Itoudis, who will mark two years in the role this Saturday, seeking improvement in big games and knockout matches.

Sources within the club told Sport Channel that while Itoudis has elevated their European standing, their domestic performance lags. They noted that the team often arrives less prepared for Israeli league games, with questionable substitutions. The transition between the EuroLeague and domestic league rosters is challenging, with players not training together consistently, leading to expectations of subpar performance against teams that practice as a unit.

Looking ahead, Hapoel Tel Aviv is focused on their upcoming EuroLeague derby against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Limassol. Player Vasilije Micić, who missed Monday's final, is expected to be fit and available, with the club acknowledging his absence and leadership were detrimental. Tomas Satoransky has also returned to training and is likely to be available.

Separately, Panathinaikos star Nigel Hayes-Davis attended the final and spoke with Itoudis and Yanai, praising the atmosphere. Hayes-Davis, who was in advanced negotiations with Hapoel Tel Aviv before signing with Panathinaikos, maintains a good relationship with Yanai and was invited by Hapoel players Antonio Blakeney and Dan Otoru.