Maccabi FOX Tel Aviv will play their final road game of the regular season facing Hapoel Jerusalem as part of the 27th league fixture (Thursday, 21:15, live on Sport5 - channel 55). The Yellow & Blue hold a two-game advantage over the Reds, beating the cup holders in the latest game between the clubs 86:80 in Menora Mivtachim Arena.
״We have an important game on the road against Jerusalem, as we all know the importance of this matchup", Said head coach Giannis Sfairopoulos before the final practice. "We want to stay focused, have a better game than the one we won here earlier. We need to be more concentrated and follow the plan because Jerusalem is a very good team. If we don't follow our gameplan, it will be difficult to stay in the game".
"Just playing hard on defense, limiting easy baskets and getting back in transition. We need to play together as a team, go out there and have fun", Explained Sandy Cohen about the keys for tomorrow's game. "I'm just trying to grow every game, every practice as I'm getting more comfortable in every game and every minute. I'm just trying to keep improving my role on this team, getting everybody's trust rolling, and hopefully keep this momentum growing".
With two fixtures left the Yellow & Blue look to secure first place, and for that, you should take out your calculator: A Maccabi victory or a loss up to 11 points difference, will ensure the top spot in the domestic league standings. A Jerusalem win by 12 or more, will give Oded Katash's squad a shot to take command of first place if Maccabi loses to Rishon Le'Zion and Jerusalem beats Holon in the final league fixture of the regular season.
In the past four matchups between the two teams, the hosts ended up with the victory. Scottie Wilbekin averaged 22.3 points (64% from three), 6 assists, and 28.3 index points during the season matchup against the Reds, earning twice player of the week honors in both wins over Jerusalem. In the past win, Scottie finished the night with 21 points, and 10 assists as Amar'e Stoudemire added 17 points and 12 rebounds.