Arik Shivek says Israel only have themselves to blame after they crashed out of Eurobasket 2013 following three defeats in four matches in Slovenia.
The Israel coach cut a dejected figure as his players lost 75-71 against Great Britain in overtime and their fate was sealed with a 80-76 defeat against Germany as they finished bottom of Group A.
"We’re very disappointed," said Shivek. "It was in our hands. We could have decided our sporting destiny, maybe participating further at EuroBasket.
"We set ourselves a goal and we didn’t achieve it."
Israel went into the game against Germany knowing victory could see them reach round two. They held a 10-point advantage after the first quarter, with NBA star Omri Casspi catching the eye.
He went on to score 22 points, with 13 rebounds, but a loss of concentration allowed the Germans back in. There was also a notable contribution from Lior Eliyahu who added 16 points and 11 rebounds.
Israel’s solitary victory saw them beat Belgium 87-69, with Afik Nessim registering 23 points.
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