Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv returned to the top of the Israeli Premier League standings after defeating Hapoel Gilboa/Galil 80:73 in Gan Ner. The reigning champions overcame a weak second quarter and controlled the game throughout the second half, with Jalen Hoard shaking off the rust after returning from injury and delivering one of his best performances of the season.

The yellow-and-blue squad arrived at the Gan Ner arena less than an hour before tip-off, but that didn’t stop them from starting strong and leading 28:21 after the first quarter. The second quarter told a different story, with many turnovers and just 8 points scored by Maccabi. However, the yellows regrouped after halftime, riding a standout performance of 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks from Hoard to open up a gap and maintain it.

In fact, Hoard’s 30 efficiency rating was his second highest of the season in the local league, just behind his 32 rating in the first-round derby. He was supported by Tamir Blatt with 15 points and Roman Sorkin with 12.

“We still have two more games to go, and in the last two years I’ve learned not to look too far ahead,” said Maccabi coach Oded Kattash after the game. “We know how high the level is in this league. If we finish in first place — and that’s the goal — it’s really not something to be taken for granted.”

As mentioned, Maccabi returned to the top spot with a 20–4 record, with only two games remaining in the regular season. If Kattash’s squad defeats Bnei Herzliya on Thursday and Kiryat Ata next Tuesday, they will finish in first place and secure home-court advantage throughout the playoffs.