Maccabi Ashdod Hosts American College Basketball Team

Maccabi Rotstein Ashdod hosted the Allen University basketball team from South Carolina for a joint practice and exhibition game on Wednesday. Allen University is known for its student-athletes who are exclusively African American. The visit, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Max Project, aimed to combat antisemitism and racism by promoting tolerance through sports.

Eric Rubin, an oleh (immigrant to Israel) who lives in Tel Aviv and is the driving force behind the project, described the event as "unbelievable." He emphasized that bringing a predominantly Black college team to play alongside Israeli and American players of different races highlights how sports can connect people. He noted the significance for the American players, many of whom had never left the U.S. or played against professionals.

Ashdod Captain Robert Turner, originally from South Carolina, expressed his pleasure in hosting people from his home region. He spoke with the young players, explaining what a wonderful place Israel is and how much they are loved there.

Ronen Harel, the club's chairman, called it a great honor to host an American college team, especially during a time when few foreign athletes are coming to Israel. He believes this connection will lead to future positive developments for the club and the city of Ashdod.

Eitan Weiss, the Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States, highlighted the visit as an example of sports bridging cultures, communities, and nations. The delegation was invited by the Consulate General of Israel in Atlanta in cooperation with Rubin and Professor John Ives of Allen University. The initiative aimed to strengthen ties between Israel and the African American community in the U.S., using basketball as a common language to foster mutual understanding and respect.