Hapoel Jerusalem Appoints Sasha Obradovic as Head Coach with High Expectations

Sasha Obradovic, the new head coach of Hapoel Jerusalem basketball team, arrived in Israel on July 5, 2026, to begin preparations for the 2026/27 season. Upon landing at Ben Gurion Airport, Obradovic expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and shared his high expectations for the team, citing his previous experience coaching in the EuroLeague and his belief in the club's potential to reach that level. He also expressed enthusiasm about meeting the passionate fans of Jerusalem.

Obradovic signed a three-year contract with Hapoel Jerusalem, earning approximately $750,000 net per season. Since his appointment, the club has already made two significant roster moves: star player Jared Harper extended his contract for three more years through the 2028/29 season, and the team signed Jalen Smith, who previously played for Alba Berlin alongside captain Yuval Zosman.

Obradovic, 57, previously coached Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) during the last season after replacing coach Janis Sferopoulos. Although he initially led the team to strong performances, the club eventually fell to tenth place and was eliminated in the play-in round, leading to his departure from the position. His new role at Hapoel Jerusalem marks the start of a new era for the club as it aims to compete at the highest levels in Israeli and European basketball.