Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Hapoel Jerusalem in Basketball Super Clasico

The highly anticipated "Super Clasico" of Israeli basketball is set to take place Saturday evening, with Maccabi Tel Aviv hosting Hapoel Jerusalem in a Winner League matchup. Maccabi enters the game on a high, having secured two consecutive victories in the past week: one in the final of the Winner Cup and another in their first EuroLeague derby against Hapoel Jerusalem, played in Limassol, Cyprus.

Maccabi anticipates a significant challenge from Hapoel Jerusalem, who have demonstrated impressive defensive capabilities and remain undefeated this season in both the league and the EuroCup. The Tel Aviv team aims to maintain its positive momentum, particularly highlighting improvements in its defense, and secure another win during a demanding period with many upcoming games.

On the personnel front, Daniel Theis is set to make his Winner League debut this season, having not been included in the squad for the first four rounds. The center has shown good form in recent games and is expected to play a significant role. However, coach Oded Katash will be without Oshey Brissett, who is experiencing hip and groin pain after sustaining an injury during Thursday's derby. The team has decided to rest him to allow for recovery before the upcoming double EuroLeague week.

Guard Yam Madar, who broke his nose in the derby, has been included in the roster. It remains uncertain if he will play due to sensitivity around the injury, but teammates report his strong determination to take the court. The team estimates his chances of participating in the game are high.