Debate Over Shared Championship in Israeli Basketball League Continues
Legal Appeal for Shared Title
On Tuesday, June 18, 2025, it was reported that attorneys Lior Shapira and Yossi Haber, deputy mayors of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem respectively, formally wrote to the chairperson of the Israeli Basketball Premier League, Ari Steinberg, urging her to reconsider the decision not to award a champion for the current season. They proposed that Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem be declared co-champions.
Response from League Management
In reply to this request, Steinberg expressed her appreciation for the commitment shown towards Israeli sports, particularly basketball. She stated that the decision made by the league’s emergency committee on June 16, 2025, was unanimous following extensive, careful discussions that considered all perspectives, especially those of Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem.
Steinberg emphasized that determining the league champion should be exclusively decided on the court, under fair competitive conditions for all teams. Given the current extraordinary situation related to security and the inability to hold decisive games in a timely manner, the committee regrettably concluded that there would be no champion declared for this season.
Acknowledgment of Efforts and Challenges
She noted her personal disappointment as both the chairperson and a lifelong basketball fan regarding the absence of a decisive championship game. Despite intensive efforts and ongoing communications with various stakeholders aimed at facilitating this match, the decision made was deemed the least unfavorable among several challenging alternatives.
In addressing a point made in the letter about conducting the game without fans, Steinberg disclosed that this option had been thoroughly examined. However, security authorities firmly ruled it out due to the ongoing exceptional security situation and real threat to life.
Reflection on Sportsmanship Principles
Steinberg remarked that the suggestion of a shared championship, while well-intentistartd, does not align with the fundamental principles of competitive sports. She pointed out that the mechanisms for deciding championships are established in advance, and altering them retroactively-even under difficult and historic circumstances-could harm public trust and the integrity of the sport.
In conclusion, Steinberg expressed gratitude for both teams’ impressive seasons, acknowledging the players, fans, and professionals who have shown dedication during this challenging period. She reassured that efforts will persist to ensure that the upcoming season begins with a sense of hope, security, and fairness in sport.
This ongoing situation reflects broader challenges faced within sporting bodies during periods of national distress, highlighting the delicate balance between competitive integrity and external circumstances affecting sports events