Jeff Dowtin Opens Up About His Difficult Maccabi Tel Aviv Stint

Jeff Dowtin Jr., who left Maccabi Tel Aviv for Italy's Napoli this past summer, recently spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport about his challenging stint in Israel. The American guard, who has quickly settled into his new club, opened up about the difficulties he experienced with the yellow-and-blue amid the ongoing war, frequent travel, and the necessity of playing home games abroad.

Challenges in Israel and a Fresh Start in Italy

"It was a very unusual experience," Dowtin said regarding his time with Maccabi Tel Aviv. "It was definitely a culture shock, because of the war and everything that was happening. We played our home games in Serbia, we traveled a lot, constantly flying. When we finally managed to return home, the war broke out again. It is a difficult situation that takes a toll both mentally and physically."

"It was a very unusual experience. It was definitely a culture shock, because of the war and everything that was happening. We played our home games in Serbia, we traveled a lot, constantly flying."

Dowtin, 29, joined Maccabi after stints in the NBA and G League, signing with Napoli over the summer and immediately finding his footing. In the opening three rounds of the Italian league, he averaged 18 points and 7.3 assists per game. Less than two weeks ago, he also starred in an 84-76 victory over reigning EuroCup champions Bourg, scoring 19 points alongside a clutch three-pointer in the final minutes.

Adaptation and Leadership in Napoli

The move to Italy also brought a significant lifestyle change. "Napoli is a beautiful city," the guard shared. "I love going out to the city center, walking around, seeing the sea and the buildings, and trying new foods: pasta, risotto, Margherita pizza. I love stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things, it's great. And perhaps the thing I love most is that everything here feels so calm and peaceful, because I am like that too."

Regarding his role on the new team, he noted: "Vocal leadership is the most important thing I can bring. To communicate effectively with the players, to be a second coach on the floor. Being a leader is one of the hardest jobs in any field, not just sports. This is what all successful teams need. I think it's a gift I have, and I enjoy it."

Dowtin also praised his new head coach, Jasmin Repeša: "He is a completely different coach from anyone else. He is very energetic and aggressive. He wants everything done at an exact pace. He leaves no room for laziness, demands perfection, and focuses on the small details. He is tough because he doesn't want to see you fail or make mistakes. He is a great coach, I love him."