Jaylen Hoard and Maccabi win the first-ever Tel Aviv derby in EuroLeague
For the first time in EuroLeague history, the two Tel Aviv clubs faced off this Wednesday in Sofia (Bulgaria). And it was Maccabi Tel Aviv led by Jaylen Hoard who prevailed over their rival Hapoel Tel Aviv, in an intense match that ended with a score of 103-90. A victory that was both historic and foundational for a team still under construction, led by coach Oded Kattash and a roster renewed by more than half.
Maccabi Tel Aviv makes history
In this first meeting between the two Israeli clubs in Europe’s most prestigious competition, Maccabi Tel Aviv made the difference in the final quarter. After Chris Jones tied the game at 72-72, Jeff Dowtin Jr. caught fire, scoring 11 points by himself in the next five minutes to give his team the definitive lead.
Maccabi had six players scoring in double figures, a sign of an already promising collective. Lonnie Walker (20 points, 4 assists), Oshae Brissett (19 points) and Dowtin Jr. (13 points, all scored in the last quarter) led the charge, well supported by Jaylen Hoard (13 points on 5/10 shooting, 3 rebounds and 2 assists for a 13 efficiency rating in 29 minutes) and veterans Roman Sorkin (12 points) and Tamir Blatt (11 points, 7 assists).
« We are a new team and we need to build our confidence. This victory is very important for that, » explained Oded Kattash in the post-game press conference.
Jaylen Hoard solid in rotation
Playing 28 minutes, Jaylen Hoard confirmed that he was gradually establishing himself as a reliable player in Maccabi’s frontcourt rotation. The former Hapoel player brought his energy on both ends of the floor, in a game where Maccabi dominated collectively (24 assists for only 12 turnovers).
This success represents the first victory of the season in EuroLeague for the Israeli club, after two opening losses. Maccabi will now try to build on this momentum before facing FC Barcelona and Olympiacos next week.
Hapoel Tel Aviv learns the hard way in EuroLeague
On the other side, Hapoel Tel Aviv, still in a learning phase at this level, struggled defensively. Their coach Dimitris Itoudis acknowledged his team’s shortcomings:
« We were poor defensively. It’s not about arrogance, but about preparation. At this level, mistakes are costly, » he stated after the game.
Despite 18 points from Elijah Bryant and 16 from Antonio Blakeney, failing rotations and lack of defensive communication gave too much space to Maccabi’s shooters. For Itoudis, this defeat must serve as a lesson before upcoming games against Valencia and Paris Basketball.
A foundational victory for Maccabi
Beyond the symbolism, this success could mark a turning point in Maccabi Tel Aviv’s season start. With eight new players integrated into the roster, Oded Kattash knows that cohesion will take time, but the collective performance seen in Sofia is encouraging.
« Guys come early to work, stay late to shoot. You can feel everyone is focused and motivated. This game shows what we’re capable of, » shared Oshae Brissett after the game.
With an efficient and involved Jaylen Hoard, Maccabi likely has the foundation of a team hoping to be a dark horse this season in EuroLeague.
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