Hapoel Jerusalem Launches New Season with Euroleague Ambitions

Hapoel Jerusalem held its official season-opening event on Tuesday evening at the Museum of Tolerance in Jerusalem, bringing together club owners, coaching staff, players, and sponsors. The team is set to face Bnei Herzliya on Friday in the Winner Cup quarterfinals, ahead of their EuroCup season opener next Tuesday.

Ambitions and Preparations

"The players understand how big we want to be, there are high ambitions here to grow and improve," said head coach Sasa Obradovic. "We had excellent practices, but our flow in games is still not there. We are improving and I am very satisfied with this group, it's very easy to coach them. I hope we win as many games as possible and then everything will be better."

Regarding the possibility of signing Lorenzo Brown as a replacement for Jareed Harper, Obradovic added: "We have options, and I believe a decision will be made soon among those options. Lorenzo Brown is an excellent player."

Owner Matan Adelson emphasized the club's long-term vision: "I am very satisfied with the roster, but there is no time left to celebrate what we did in the summer; what matters now is the games. I am very excited about the start of the season, the sky is the limit for this team. Bringing in Sasa Obradovic means we are here to stay and are aiming for the very highest levels."

"I want Hapoel to compete at the highest level and build something that won't depend on a single roster or a single coach. There is a difference between building a great team and a great club." — Matan Adelson

Looking Ahead to Europe and Home Games

Adelson also addressed the ongoing challenge of hosting games in Israel and potential alternatives abroad: "To be unfortunately out of our full control, we are doing everything we can. If Cyprus is an option, we will do everything to play there, as it has clear advantages over Belgrade." He also revealed plans regarding European competition: "We are planning a bid to get a Euroleague franchise. Nothing is guaranteed, but we hope the bid will be accepted. We have a fascinating story to tell."

Guard Yovel Zusman shared his thoughts on returning from a minor injury: "This event is fun, it connects the people around the club. I had a slight injury and it's behind me, I was a bit stressed because I was out for a long time. I am fine and should play on Friday."

Co-owner Gal Mekel presented the club's new vision and official slogan for the upcoming campaign: Devotion Inspires.