NBA: Israeli Basketball Ties Continue to Shift in League
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Pooh Jeter leaves Portland Trail Blazers for LA Lakers scouting role.
- Jeter previously played for Hapoel Jerusalem and knows Deni Avdija.
- Mike Schmitz, who supported Deni Avdija, also left Portland.
- Trail Blazers saw multiple staff departures this summer.
- These moves highlight NBA personnel shifts with Israeli connections.
Pooh Jeter, a former player for Hapoel Jerusalem and most recently a player development coach for the Portland Trail Blazers, has left the team to become the head of professional scouting for the Los Angeles Lakers. Jeter, who played in Israel during the 2009-10 season, maintained a close relationship with Israeli player Deni Avdija, describing their interactions as "rivalry" stemming from Avdija's time with Maccabi Tel Aviv. Jeter noted their frequent conversations and shared activities.
Jeter's departure follows other professional staff with Israeli connections leaving the Trail Blazers. Mike Schmitz, described as a key figure who believed in Avdija's potential, previously moved to become the new general manager for the Dallas Mavericks under Masai Ujiri. These moves indicate a trend of personnel changes within the NBA, with individuals who have experience or connections to Israeli basketball finding new roles.
The article also briefly mentions Damian Lillard discussing his collaboration with Deni Avdija, though details are not provided. The Portland Trail Blazers have experienced numerous departures this summer, some initiated by new management to reduce expenses and streamline operations, while others are professionals pursuing new opportunities.
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