Hapoel Tel Aviv Aims Higher in EuroLeague With New Signings and Strategy

Hapoel Tel Aviv had a remarkable debut season in the EuroLeague in 2025-26, finishing sixth and securing another season in the competition. Under coach Dimitris Itoudis, the team established itself among the top contenders, even spending several weeks in first place. For the upcoming season, the club has reinforced its roster by adding players such as Tomas Satoransky, Kadin Carrington, Zach LeDay, Amir Coffey, and Jacob Toppin, aiming to maintain its competitive edge.

Despite the talent and depth, the team plans to continue playing a straightforward style focused on individual skill and basic offensive sets rather than complex tactics. Key players like Elijah Bryant and Antonio Blakeney are expected to be primary scorers, while the new additions are anticipated to provide additional firepower and athleticism. However, the team faces challenges in adding the toughness and defensive resilience needed to compete against EuroLeague powerhouses like Panathinaikos, Olympiacos, and Fenerbahce.

Veteran Satoransky is seen as a stabilizing presence, similar to Daniel Teisseire’s role at Maccabi Tel Aviv, while managing the health of star Elijah Bryant remains critical. The Israeli players, including Tamir Blatt, are expected to contribute, though there are tensions between Blatt and the coaching staff. Off the court, the relationship with the passionate Hapoel fan base remains strained, with ongoing skepticism about the club’s direction despite the significant progress made by general manager Ofer Yanai.

Looking ahead, Hapoel Tel Aviv is likely to prioritize EuroLeague success over domestic competitions, continuing the split-season approach between Sofia and Tel Aviv that affected last season’s local league performance. The club’s ambition is clear: to break through the current ceiling and advance deeper into the EuroLeague playoffs, but this will require proving that alongside talent and financial investment, the team can also demonstrate toughness and a coherent system.