Israel Basketball Coach Ariel Beit Halachmi Praises Team Chemistry Between Tamir Blatt and Yam Madar

On August 19, 2026, Israel's national basketball team held its annual gala ahead of the upcoming international window. National coach Ariel Beit Halachmi spoke about the team's preparation and prospects, highlighting the strong chemistry between star guards Tamir Blatt and Yam Madar. He revealed that the two, who are close friends, practiced together extensively and played side by side at positions one and two during training, showing promising integration.

Beit Halachmi expressed satisfaction with the team's deep and committed roster, noting that while the chances to qualify for the World Championship are slim, they remain possible. He emphasized the importance of winning at least two games in the critical August window to keep qualification hopes alive. The team has more training time than before and will play a preparatory match against Georgia on August 23 before facing Poland on August 27 and Latvia on August 30 in Riga.

The coach acknowledged minor injuries but confirmed all players are healthy on paper and expects the team to be ready. He lamented that since his tenure began, Israel has not hosted a home game but praised the players' commitment and clear direction. Beit Halachmi also discussed the youth teams' summer performance, noting physical and defensive weaknesses that need addressing to compete at higher levels. He mentioned that David Mozes, a promising young player, could not join this window due to college commitments but is expected to join next summer and potentially become a key big man alongside Sorokin.