Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces 'Test of Character' in European Derby

Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to host Hapoel Tel Aviv in a EuroLeague basketball derby on Thursday, played at the Spyros Kiprianou Arena in Limassol, Cyprus, as the team continues to hold its home games there until they can return to Israel. This marks the third encounter between the two Tel Aviv clubs in under two weeks, with each team having secured one victory in their previous official matchups this season. Hapoel initially won a league game 12 days ago, but Maccabi responded with a dramatic comeback victory in the Winner Cup final three days prior, overcoming a 23-point deficit.

Maccabi's coaching staff views the upcoming EuroLeague game as a significant "test of character," especially after the emotional intensity of the cup final. The team aims to put the celebrations behind them and focus on the challenge, acknowledging their current difficult standing in the EuroLeague with a 2-8 record, placing them 18th. The recent cup win is hoped to be a turning point, boosting confidence and optimism after a six-game losing streak across all competitions that had created a challenging atmosphere and mental state within the club.

The team is preparing for a different challenge against Hapoel, whom they recognize as one of the most formidable opponents in the EuroLeague due to their deep and versatile roster. The lineup for the European competition will differ from the cup final, and Maccabi has prepared for various tactical approaches Hapoel might employ. Captain John DiBartolomeo stated that the team is preparing for the derby as they would for any game, expecting Hapoel to react and being ready for adjustments.

All Maccabi players are fit and available for coach Oded Katash. The team is particularly looking for continued strong performances from Jimmy Clark, Keaton Wallace, and Daniel Theis, who were instrumental in the cup comeback. The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of the derby, urging an aggressive start and efficient play on both ends of the court to avoid falling behind early, as they did in the previous derby.

New guard Kamar Baldwin, recently signed from Bayern Munich, will not participate in this game but is expected to join the team next week, with the aim of registering him for the game against Olympiacos. Significant Israeli fan presence is anticipated at the game in Cyprus, with an estimated 1,500-2,000 spectators expected, a larger turnout than in previous games played in Belgrade. Enhanced security measures will be in place, including increased local police and security forces. The team will be accompanied by local scouts on the court. Maccabi hopes the proximity to Israel will encourage more fans to attend home games in Cyprus, while efforts to bring games back to Israel continue. MYMALL Limassol will be a sponsor for the current season.