Maccabi Tel Aviv Seeks Fresh Start Amid EuroLeague Ambitions and Front Office Turmoil

Maccabi Tel Aviv is gearing up for a new EuroLeague season with high hopes of breaking their tradition of slow starts. Under head coach Oded Kattash, the team has historically struggled in the early rounds, securing a positive record after five games only once during the 2022/23 campaign. With a largely retained core, including eight players from last year's top twelve and the return of Bonzie Colson, the club is optimistic about changing the narrative this time around.

Defensive Adjustments and Roster Depth

Beyond early-season form, defensive consistency has been a major pain point for the yellow-and-blue, who finished near the bottom of EuroLeague defensive metrics over the past three seasons. To address this vulnerability, Maccabi has bolstered its perimeter and interior defense with the addition of Armando Bacot, Bonzie Colson, and Yam Madar. These acquisitions are expected to provide the toughness and defensive IQ required to compete at the highest level in Europe.

Expectations for Yam Madar

One of the most anticipated and debated additions to the squad is Yam Madar. Moving across the city from Hapoel Tel Aviv, the talented guard carries massive expectations from the fans and the coaching staff. While Madar has previously earned Rising Star honors in the competition during his time with Partizan Belgrade, he will now need to step into a primary leadership role and prove he can deliver consistent production on a nightly basis in the EuroLeague.

Front Office Turmoil

As the season tips off against LDLC ASVEL, Maccabi faces unprecedented off-court challenges, including ownership disputes currently heading to arbitration. While CEO Avi Ben Tal works to maintain stability behind the scenes, internal factionalism and contract negotiations—such as ongoing talks regarding Roman Sorkin's deal—remain critical storylines to watch as the club navigates a demanding domestic and European calendar.