Israel National Basketball Team Reflects on Loss to Germany, Eyes Recovery Against Croatia

The Israel national basketball team began their July window with a loss to Germany on Friday, July 3, 2026. Despite the defeat, the team expressed pride in their effort and unity, acknowledging the challenge of overcoming the early and third-quarter deficits against the reigning world and European champions. Captain Tomer Ginat, who scored 16 points with 8 assists and 8 rebounds despite a knee injury managed with injections and painkillers, returned to Israel immediately after the game for further treatment. His commitment was praised by teammates for boosting the team's energy both on and off the court.

Yam Madar also delivered a standout performance with 31 points and 5 assists and traveled back to Israel alongside Ginat to address ongoing sports-related matters. The team expects Madar to rejoin the squad for their next game against Croatia. Meanwhile, the team is working to resolve an insurance issue involving player Noam Yaakov, who was discovered just two hours before the Germany game to be uninsured by FIBA. The team hopes to settle this promptly so Yaakov can participate under coach Ariel Beit Halachmi.

The team will fly to Croatia later on the same day, aiming to bounce back with a victory to close the July window. Coach Yair Karvitz reflected on the game, praising the strong final quarter but lamenting the physicality and shooting percentages that led to the loss. He emphasized the team's determination to give their all in the upcoming match despite the expected difficulty.