Hapoel Tel Aviv Declares Themselves 'Losers' After Blowing 23-Point Lead in Final

Hapoel Tel Aviv players and staff described themselves as "losers" after squandering a 23-point lead in the second half of the Winner Cup final against Maccabi Tel Aviv, ultimately losing 86-75. The team felt the championship was within their grasp, marking a significant disappointment after 33 years without a title. "There's no other way to describe this loss. It was in our hands. Every time, we reach a big game and then falter. It's like a monkey on our back," one team member stated.

Despite the crushing defeat, owner Ofir Yanai expressed optimism to the players, suggesting that learning from the loss could lead to a championship title this year. He emphasized the need for the team to show character. The club is conducting a mid-term review of coach Dimitris Itoudis, who is approaching his two-year anniversary, seeking improvement in knockout games and big matchups. While acknowledging Itoudis's success in European play, the team feels their domestic performance is lacking, citing insufficient preparation and questionable substitutions.

Concerns were also raised about the team's adaptation to playing in Israel, with suggestions that foreign players find it less comfortable and struggle with the transition between EuroLeague and domestic league rosters. The lack of consistent practice time together was identified as a factor affecting performance against well-coordinated opponents.

Looking ahead, Hapoel Tel Aviv is focused on their upcoming EuroLeague derby against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Limassol. Guard Vasilije Micić, who missed the final, is expected to be fit and available, with the club noting his absence and leadership were detrimental. Thomas Satoransky has also returned to practice and is expected to be available.

Separately, Panathinaikos star Nigel Hayes-Davis attended the game and spoke with Hapoel Tel Aviv personnel, including coach Itoudis and owner Yanai, in the locker room post-game, complimenting the atmosphere. Hayes-Davis and Yanai have a good relationship; Hayes-Davis was in advanced negotiations with Hapoel Tel Aviv before signing with Panathinaikos. He was invited to the game by Hapoel players Antonio Blakeney and Dan O'Rourke.