Maccabi Ramat Gan Emerges as Surprise Contender in Israeli Basketball League

Following the departure of coach Shmulik Brenner after six seasons, Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan was expected to face a difficult period. However, the club has instead assembled an intriguing roster and is now positioned as a potential surprise team in the upcoming basketball league season.

The team's strategy for its foreign players focused on acquiring talent already familiar with Israeli basketball. This led to the signings of Ahmad Caver, Bryce Washington, and A.J. Figueroa. Washington, entering his fourth season in Israel, has a strong track record, averaging double-digit points and over eight rebounds in previous stints with Hapoel Galil Elyon and Elizur Netanya. Figueroa impressed in his ten-game stretch with Hapoel Be'er Sheva last season, scoring 18.6 points per game with excellent shooting percentages.

Caver, who previously played for Hapoel Holon before leaving due to the 'Swords of Iron' war, has an impressive resume, having led the Lithuanian league in scoring and efficiency, averaging 5.8 assists, and earning Player of the Year honors. The fourth foreign player is Justin Lewis, a versatile forward who can also play center, having spent last season with Limoges in the French league.

Beyond the four foreign players, Ramat Gan boasts a strong Israeli core. Gil Beni remains as captain, joined by Lior Cartera from Hapoel Holon, who aims to re-establish himself as a top local player. Roey Freiman, who finished last season strongly leading Galil Elyon to a crucial win, and Joaquin Schochman, adding firepower and experience from Maccabi Ra'anana, are also key additions. The team also welcomes naturalized guard Justin Allen, who averaged over 13 points in US college basketball.

Rounding out the roster are returning player Yonatan Attias, Eilai Gabay seeking further opportunity, and Ariel Berkovich, grandson of the legendary Miki Berkovich. The team will be coached by Elad Hassin, who had a successful season with Ironi Eilat in the National League. Hassin's challenge will be to quickly integrate the experienced foreign players with the solid Israeli contingent to aim for a surprising campaign. In a league where the second tier appears particularly strong, Ramat Gan has the potential to compete for a playoff spot and possibly even a top-half finish if the team gels effectively.