Hapoel Jerusalem Coach Praises Player, Team Advances in Cup

Hapoel Jerusalem, the reigning winner of the Winner Cup, secured a spot in the semifinals by defeating Bnei Herzliya 88-68 in a quarterfinal match held in Hadera. The team, coached by Sasa Obradovic, is on track to defend its title, having also faced and defeated Herzliya in the previous year's quarterfinals.

Kenyon "Kenny" Lofton Jr. was a standout performer in the game, scoring 17 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, narrowly missing a triple-double. Other notable scorers for Hapoel Jerusalem included Shake Milton with 11 points, and Nimrod Levi, Yuval Sussman, Jalen Smith, Eitan Burg, and Gabi Chachashvili, each contributing 9 points.

Coach Obradovic lauded Lofton Jr.'s performance, stating, "Lofton is a great player. It's still the beginning, but he is one of the best players I have coached in his position. He is versatile and knows what he is capable of and where he needs to improve." Lofton Jr. expressed his satisfaction with the team's collective effort and his personal performance, stating, "Almost a triple-double? It just happens, I play my game. You will definitely see a triple-double from me this season." He also voiced his ambition for the team, adding, "Will I take this team to the EuroLeague? Yes, of course, let's do it."

New acquisition Lorenzo Brown is expected to arrive on Friday morning and join the team's practice later that night. Hapoel Jerusalem is scheduled to travel on Saturday for their first EuroCup game against Rostock on Tuesday. Obradovic views the team as a favorite to win the competition, emphasizing the importance of a strong start.