Hapoel Jerusalem Basketball Team Aims for EuroCup Title and EuroLeague Berth

Hapoel Jerusalem basketball club is embarking on its European season with renewed ambition and a significantly increased budget, aiming to win the EuroCup and secure a spot in the EuroLeague. The team opens its campaign against Germany's Rostock in Belgrade, playing a "home" game due to circumstances. This season's player budget has risen by nearly 50%, featuring a revamped foreign roster with experienced and high-quality players, all under the guidance of new coach Sasa Obradovic.

Obradovic, a Serbian coach with a strong European resume from clubs like Monaco and Red Star, was hired to elevate the team past previous hurdles, particularly their quarter-final exit in last year's EuroCup. His appointment signals the club's serious intent to reach the EuroLeague, backed by substantial investment that leaves little room for excuses. Despite the challenge of a strengthened EuroCup competition and an early injury to star player Jared Harper, Jerusalem is committed to its goal.

The foreign player acquisitions reflect Obradovic's preference for an aggressive, physical style of play. Key additions include Jalen Smith, who previously eliminated Jerusalem from European competition, and Shayne Whittington, who brings EuroLeague and EuroCup experience. In the frontcourt, Deontae Keokok adds physicality, while rookie Kenny Lofton Jr. is seen as a versatile wildcard. The team's focus is on acquiring players with mental and physical toughness.

Despite the overhaul, the team's leadership remains centered on Jared Harper, who signed an extension through 2029. However, Harper is sidelined with a thumb ligament tear, expected to return between January and February. His absence necessitates the team learning to function and win without him, a task made more challenging by his crucial role in leadership and scoring. Lorenzo Brown has been brought in on loan from Milan to help fill the void during Harper's absence.

The Israeli contingent of the roster is considered less prominent compared to rival Tel Aviv teams, with key players like Yam Madar and Tamir Blatt moving elsewhere. However, the club believes in its current Israeli players, including the recently signed Eitan Boruch, emphasizing defined roles for each player. The EuroCup format has also changed, with a larger group stage and best-of-three playoff series, which could favor Jerusalem after last year's single-game elimination.