Maccabi Tel Aviv delivered a commanding performance to secure its 47th Israel State Cup with a resounding 109‑90 win over Bnei Herzliya in the final on February 19, electrifying fans at Yad Eliyahu Arena and underlining the team’s enduring legacy in Israeli basketball. The victory was marked by standout individual efforts and a cohesive team display that never let Herzliya get comfortable.
A Historic Triumph at Yad Eliyahu Arena
Under the bright lights of Tel Aviv’s iconic Yad Eliyahu Arena, Maccabi Tel Aviv looked every bit the powerhouse expected of a club that has dominated this competition for decades. From the opening tip off, the Yellow and Blue imposed their pace and depth on the game, jumping ahead and building momentum early in the contest.
The final scoreline of 109‑90 captured the emphatic nature of the win, and the atmosphere inside the arena was electric as fans witnessed yet another chapter in the club’s rich history. President Isaac Herzog was among the spectators, highlighting the national significance of the event.
Key Performers Lead the Charge
Maccabi’s success was powered by an impressive scoring spread, with Roman Sorkin emerging as a dominant offensive force in the first half. He consistently hit shots, particularly from beyond the arc, turning what could have been a tight first quarter into a commanding lead by halftime.
Jaylen Hoard took over in the second half, using his athleticism and scoring versatility to keep the pressure on Herzliya’s defense. His contributions helped Maccabi extend its lead and maintain control throughout the fourth quarter.
Tamir Blatt also played a major role, with his perimeter shooting and playmaking adding another layer of offensive threat. Blatt finished with 14 points and eight assists, showcasing why he remains one of the league’s most dynamic guards.
For Bnei Herzliya, Chinanu Onuaku led the scoring effort with 16 points, and Noah Carter added 15, but their efforts could not bridge the gap created by Maccabi Tel Aviv’s efficient scoring and depth of talent.
Turning Points and Tactical Mastery
Maccabi’s coach, Oded Katash, emphasised his team’s defensive preparation leading up to the final, noting that the strategy paid dividends against a Herzliya squad capable of stretching defenses. “We focused on defense these past few days, as I knew our offense would take care of itself,” said Katash in his postgame remarks.
Despite Herzliya’s spirited attempts, the Yellow and Blue’s 29‑point halftime advantage proved insurmountable and forced the underdogs into a more aggressive offensive posture that left gaps Maccabi could exploit.
Herzliya’s coach, Yehu Orland, admitted the challenge of rising to the moment against a team so experienced in finals. “It’s tough to lose in a final, especially against a team like Maccabi,” Orland said, expressing mixed emotions about his squad’s performance.
Road to the Final: A Test of Grit
Maccabi’s journey to the cup final was not without adversity. In the semifinal round, Tel Aviv faced a formidable challenge from Hapoel Jerusalem, winning 94‑85 thanks to strong contributions from Sorkin and key role players that kept them afloat through momentum swings.
The semifinal triumph set the stage for a confident march into the final, while Herzliya earned its shot by edging out Hapoel HaEmek 92‑90 in a thrilling semifinal that showcased their resilience and potential.
This State Cup run reaffirms Maccabi’s status as a perennial force in Israeli basketball, adding to its already illustrious history in the competition and reinforcing its ability to rise in big moments.
What This Win Means for Maccabi Tel Aviv
The 47th State Cup title further cements Maccabi Tel Aviv’s position as the most successful club in the history of Israeli basketball. Fans have come to expect excellence from this franchise, and the team’s latest triumph underscores its commitment to winning and its depth of talent.
For many players, particularly Sorkin and Hoard, this win represents not only individual achievement but collective perseverance through a challenging season that has seen ups and downs. Hoard reflected on the victory as a testament to team unity and resilience.
Fans React and Celebrate
Inside Yad Eliyahu, celebrations were heartfelt. Supporters waved flags, cheered loudly and savoured every moment as the final buzzer sounded. Maccabi fans, known for their passionate backing, made sure that this night felt special for their team.
For Herzliya supporters, despite the loss, the journey to the final brought moments of excitement and promise, fueling hopes that their team might soon compete more regularly at this stage of the competition.
The Broader Impact
The Israel State Cup remains one of the most cherished trophies in Israeli sports, representing a knockout tournament where anything can happen and heroes emerge under pressure. Maccabi Tel Aviv’s dominance year after year adds to the lore of the competition, yet each season brings fresh narratives and opportunities for new contenders to rise.
For basketball fans across the nation, this victory will be talked about for weeks, adding another chapter to the storied rivalry between clubs and the ever‑shifting landscape of Israeli basketball.
