Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan Unites Men's and Women's Basketball Teams in Historic Move

Avi Gabay, chairman and owner of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan, has orchestrated a historic unification of the city's men's and women's basketball teams under one club. Announced on August 24, 2026, this merger transforms the club from a men's team with a prestigious youth division into a comprehensive city club representing Ramat Gan with both teams competing in the Israeli Premier League. Gabay emphasized that the unified club promotes excellence without gender distinction and serves as a single community entity.

The women's team, established in 1957, is one of Israel's leading and most stable women's basketball teams, having recently won its sixth State Cup and the Winner Cup, alongside two national championships and six runner-up finishes. The merger aims to strengthen community engagement by enabling joint activities in local schools, volunteer projects, social initiatives, and city campaigns. This integration broadens the club's representation and influence across Ramat Gan's population.

Gabay highlighted plans to collaborate with the Ramat Gan municipality to build a modern arena honoring both teams, which will also serve as a cultural and business hub. He described the union as more than administrative, creating a large, equal, and influential club that offers equal opportunities for men and women to excel and inspire future generations. The club will foster a family-like sports environment that connects community, generations, and genders while enhancing city pride and providing significant marketing and commercial platforms.

Ora Glazer, who has been involved with the club since 1997 and served as women's club chairperson for 13 years, now CEO of the women's association, praised the merger as a historic social, community, and marketing milestone that positions Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan as a leader in women's empowerment through sports. She noted that operating under one brand and management sends a clear message that achievement and professionalism are not gender-dependent.

Ramat Gan Mayor Carmel Shama-Hacohen welcomed the merger, noting the city's substantial financial support for local basketball and football teams. He stressed that sports foster community pride, teamwork, and excellence, and called the unification a natural step that brings together two excellent and value-driven teams under one professional management, promising a strong sports partnership that will bring pride to the city.