For the Israeli champs, this will be the fourth consecutive "home" game in Aleksandar Nikolic Hall in Belgrade while a war still rages on in Israel. Maccabi defeated Fenerbahce 78:73 in their previous encounter, while the Catalans beat Valencia 70:74.

“We need to be concentrated during 40 minutes, play with the Maccabi pride and carry the support of the fans in our hearts”, said head coach Oded Kattash, “We have to make it feel like a home game and find the right energies. Barcelona are a quality team and if we will make mistakes, we will be punished. It’s a big challenge”.
Barcelona made a change on their bench this summer, parting ways with Maccabi legend Sarunas Jasikevicius and naming former Barca player Roger Grimau in his stead. Maccabi's rivals let go of Nikola Mirotic and Cory Higgins, among others, but made statement additions in Jabari Parker and Willy Hernangomez.

So far, the blue-and-maroon squad are dominating, ranking third in points conceded with only 74 per game and second in total rebounds with just under 38. Their only two losses came away from home against Spanish competition, in Real Madrid and Baskonia.
"We just have to keep up our solid play, not get distracted and focus on the things that we do best - getting out and running in transition", said James Webb III ahead of the game. Added Antonius Cleveland: "We need to stay locked in and play through one another".