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The idea behind joining the European competition, which had been won twice by Hapoel Gilboa/ Galil back in 2012 and 2013, was to circumvent the Knesset’s decision to halt all sporting activities except for those in international tournaments.
Maccabi Tel Aviv, which takes part in the Euroleague, didn’t need to stop its practice sessions or games during the lockdown, so by following suit the other dozen teams in the domestic league joined the Balkan League and continued business as usual.
In the first round of games, Hapoel Jerusalem defeated Maccabi Rishon Lezion 10396 in an up- tempo battle that was decided in overtime.
Rishon came out strong and led most of the way thanks to terrific showings by Golan Gutt, Isaiah Taylor, Akil Mitchell and Darryl Monroe. But a strong second half and extra session by the Reds who were led by Malcolm Hill, Tarik Phillip, TaShawn Thomas, Chris Kramer and Tamir Blatt helped Oded Katash’s crew to the win.
Hill was the Reds’ high...