Maccabi Fox Tel Aviv built a four-game winning streak coming into a challenging week: as they'll face three strong opponents in the next 6 days. The first one comes at home against Hapoel Jerusalem (Sunday, 21:00, Live on channel 5Sport), in a matchup between the two undefeated clubs in the Israeli league.
The State Cup holders come into the game after defeating Ironi Ness Ziona, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Ironi Nahariya. On the other end, the Israeli Champions beat Maccabi Rishon LeZion, Hapoel Eilat, and Ironi Ness Ziona.
Tyler Dorsey will suit up for his first Israeli league game as Quincy Acy, Elijah Bryant, Sandy Cohen, and Angello Caloiaro won't be available for coach Giannis Sfairopoulos.
"We know the importance of this game for the club, fans, and to all of us. We will fight hard, and we will come ready", Said coach Sfairopoulos before the matchup against the reds. "We aren't thinking about this week, we are focused only on this upcoming game and how to play better as a team".
"This game is entirely different from the Winner Cup finals". Continued Sfairopoulos. "During those eight days, we played 5 games. Tomorrow we will come out differently because we don't have that same schedule, it's a big difference".
"It's extremely important to get the W, every game we come out to win". Said Maccabi's Captain John DiBartolomeo, towards Sunday's contest. "We have the last match against Jerusalem on our minds, and it will be nice to start this tough trip coming up with a win, as we approach it one game at a time. I think for us it starts on defense, Jerusalem is a very offensive-minded team, they have weapons at all positions, so limiting them in transition, and stopping their rhythm on offense will be key for us".
"We prepare to all games in the same way". Told DiBartolomeo. "We don't take any opponent likely wherever league we are. We need to be one of the better teams at home, to defend home court and take care of business at our arena".
