In the fourth game within seven days, Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv achieved an important 79-72 victory over Hapoel Holon on the road. The hard-fought win elevated the reigning champions to the top spot in the Israeli League standings for the first time this season, with a 9-1 record.

Taking the court for the first time after the passing of his stepfather, Roman Sorkin delivered a marvelous performance with 21 points. “I played for him, he was like a dad for me”, said the Maccabi big-man, who was chosen as MVP. “I knew him for 21 years and scored 21. I love him and am thankful for all he did for me”.

Besides Sorkin’s performance, it wasn’t a great game by Maccabi, who struggled on offense in the second half. But the yellows did hold the lead for nearly all evening old and enjoyed clutch plays by John DiBartolomeo and Jaylen Hoard, the latter contributing 13 points on the day.

Now, Oded Kattash and his players will shift their focus to preparations for a double EuroLeague week in Belgrade, starting with a game against Baskonia on Tuesday, followed by an away game against Red Star on Friday.