Israeli Basketball Super League Kicks Off with Holon Hosting Jerusalem

The opening round of the Israeli Basketball Super League continues on Sunday, highlighted by a marquee matchup at the Toto Hall where Hapoel Holon hosts Hapoel Jerusalem, mirroring last season's opener. Meanwhile, Hapoel Tel Aviv kicks off its campaign away against Hapoel Be'er Sheva, and Ironi Kiryat Ata welcomes Hapoel HaEmek.

Hapoel Holon vs. Hapoel Jerusalem

Pragrag Kronic's Hapoel Holon enters the contest following a turbulent preparation period marred by injuries and a heavy defeat in their BCL opener against French side Cholet. The club recently signed its eighth foreigner of the preseason, forward T.J. Holifield, who landed over the weekend to play alongside Adama Sanogo. Brandon Jones and Greg Lee remain sidelined with injuries, while Andrew Thelwell is listed as doubtful.

On the other side, Hapoel Jerusalem secured a hard-fought win over Ljubljana in midweek. Sasha Obradovic's squad showed defensive resilience to maintain a perfect EuroCup record, though their offensive flow remains a work in progress. Jerusalem will select five of their seven eligible foreign players for the Holon clash, likely managing Lorenzo Brown's minutes as he integrates further into the European rotation.

Hapoel Be'er Sheva vs. Hapoel Tel Aviv

After a difficult preseason, Hapoel Be'er Sheva opens the season with survival as its primary goal. The team faces Hapoel Tel Aviv with two newcomers who have barely practiced: M.J. Walker and newly signed Brian Cameron, while Amarly Bailey remains injured. Conversely, Dimitris Itoudis' Hapoel Tel Aviv arrived back in Israel from Valencia with a full squad before flying out to Sofia for an upcoming EuroLeague double-week.

"We want to get through the opening match safely and distribute the minutes wisely ahead of a heavy schedule," team staff noted.

Jacob Tofin lacks citizenship and will not be registered, while injured forward Tomer Ginat is nearing a return to action.

Ironi Kiryat Ata vs. Hapoel HaEmek

Eldad Bentov's Ironi Kiryat Ata showed promising signs during the Winner Cup but harbors concerns over an inexperienced Israeli core and unproven imports. They will rely on a strong start akin to last season, featuring new addition Tyrese Radford. Meanwhile, Hapoel HaEmek endured a disappointing Winner Cup campaign, prompting management to recall Rafi Manco to the roster and release Lucas Goldberg as they aim to bounce back.