Hapoel Jerusalem Coach Praises Star Player, Looks Ahead to EuroCup

Hapoel Jerusalem advanced to the semifinals of the Winner Cup after defeating Bnei Herzliya 88-68 in a rematch of last year's quarterfinals. The team, coached by Sasa Obradovic, is defending its title in the tournament. Kenrich "Kenny" Lofton Jr. was the standout player, recording 17 points and 10 rebounds, nearing a triple-double. Other notable scorers included Shake Milton with 11 points, and Nimrod Levi, Yuval Sussman, Jalen Smith, Eitan Burg, and Gabi Chachashvili each adding 9 points.

Coach Obradovic lauded Lofton, stating, "Lofton is a great player. It's still the beginning, but he is one of the best players I have coached at his position. He is versatile and knows what he is capable of and where he needs to improve." Lofton expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance and his personal goal of achieving a triple-double this season, adding, "We are a new team, with a new staff, we need to prepare and we will be ready for the season." He also voiced his ambition for the team to compete in the EuroLeague.

Hapoel Jerusalem's new acquisition, Lorenzo Brown, is expected to arrive on Friday morning and join the team's practice later that night. The team will travel on Saturday for their first EuroCup game against Rostock on Tuesday. Obradovic views the team as one of the favorites to win the EuroCup and emphasized the importance of starting the competition strong.