Hapoel Jerusalem Basketball Star Zusman Out for Weeks with Ankle Sprain

Hapoel Jerusalem is concerned following an ankle injury sustained by player Yuval Zusman during the team's victory over Ashdod in the Winner Cup. Initial assessments indicated the injury was not severe, and the club confirmed on Wednesday that Zusman has a sprain which will sideline him for several weeks.

The team is also managing the recovery of star player Jared Harper, who is undergoing rehabilitation in Israel and is expected to return to play in three to five months. Harper has reportedly insisted on remaining with the team during his recovery period.

Hapoel Jerusalem had explored signing replacements for Harper, with Spencer Dinwiddie and Cameron Payne reportedly declining offers. Coach Sasa Obradovic stated that no new players are currently being actively pursued, emphasizing that any new addition must be exceptional and fit the team's specific needs.

The team expressed satisfaction with their recent performance, particularly their defensive effort in the second half of the game against Ashdod. Players Kenny Lofton and David Roddy received praise from their coach for their contributions.

Roddy described the game experience as "wonderful" and expressed joy at returning to the court after a long break. Reflecting on the transition from the NBA to the Israeli league, Roddy highlighted the spacing of play as the most significant difference, followed by the allowance of more physical contact, which he noted requires smart application. He also acknowledged the high talent level in the league and expressed awareness of the traveling violation rules.