Yuval Sussman Returns to Basketball Court After Injury, Discusses National Team Absence
Yuval Sussman, captain of Hapoel Jerusalem basketball club, is set to return for his fourth season with the team after recovering from a significant knee injury sustained in March. The injury forced him to miss the latter half of the previous season, including the playoff semi-finals where Hapoel Jerusalem was eliminated. Sussman expressed feeling physically and mentally better than ever, stating the injury period helped him rediscover his love for basketball and appreciate the game more.
Sussman explained his absence from the national team's recent World Cup qualifiers, despite being cleared to play. He stated there was open communication with the team's management, who understood his need for a controlled rehabilitation process to avoid re-injury. Sussman believes that attempting to play at the national team's high intensity too soon would have risked further injury and potentially required surgery, which he wanted to avoid for both his career and the national team's future. He acknowledged criticism but asserted he couldn't help the national team in his current state, feeling he would only take up a spot that could be used by a fully fit player.
Reflecting on the past season, Sussman described it not as a failure but as a disappointment due to unmet high expectations, particularly missing out on the EuroCup and a chance to reach the EuroLeague. He praised new coach Sasa Obradovic for bringing aggression and experience to the team, anticipating an aggressive playing style. Sussman also addressed the controversial decision by Hapoel Jerusalem to forfeit a playoff game against Hapoel Tel Aviv during the Iranian missile attacks, stating that the foreign players' concerns for their families' safety were paramount and that the decision was made collectively with the club, prioritizing player well-being over the game.
Looking ahead, Sussman is excited about the upcoming season, aiming for Hapoel Jerusalem to win all titles, with a strong focus on the EuroCup and securing a EuroLeague spot. He welcomed the competition from new signing David Rudin, believing it will push him to improve. Sussman also touched upon his agent's public comments last season regarding his desire for more support, calling it a misstep that affected team chemistry but has since been resolved. He also shared personal updates, including his recent marriage and his long-held dream of starting a family.
