Hapoel Tel Aviv Defeats Beersheba 95-82 in League Opener

Hapoel Tel Aviv kicked off its domestic league campaign on Sunday evening with a 95-82 victory over Hapoel Beersheba in the capital of the Negev. It was not entirely straightforward for the Reds, but they ultimately secured the task ahead of a demanding double-round EuroLeague week where they will face Besiktas and Panathinaikos. Dan Oturu and Eugene German stood out.

Head coach Dimitris Itoudis summarized: We started the league and it is very important to win, we wanted to start well, aggressively, and for most of the game we were serious. 21 assists against 9 turnovers, we scored many points from turnovers, which says a lot. Credit also goes to Beersheba.

Regarding Eugene German, Itoudis noted: There was one thing I was not satisfied with – we were up by 14 at the end of the third quarter and then the gap narrowed to just 2. That run is unacceptable. We need to work on it. Eugene scored tough baskets, but he also tried to create points for others. He has that ability to penetrate and pass, or penetrate and score. It is a long way, and we will try to use everyone.

On having a different roster for the EuroLeague and the domestic league, he added: Last season was very successful. It is challenging, but the players are working hard.

Regarding the possibility of the EuroLeague returning to Tel Aviv, Itoudis stated: I am very satisfied with the effort and the meetings that took place. I pray there will be peace and that the games will return soon. United efforts from everyone are needed.

Eugene German himself added: We played hard as a team, we were very physical for all 40 minutes, executed well, and that is what brought us the win. I felt good, I feel comfortable, in a good place. Every evening I need to prove something – not to others but to myself. I think I can run a team anywhere, as long as they believe in me.