Beni Sarur Embraces Role in Israeli National Basketball Team After Injury Comeback

Beni Sarur, the Israeli basketball center, recently received his first call-up to the senior Israeli national team, fulfilling a lifelong dream. The invitation came from coach Ariel Beit Halachmi, and Sarur did not hesitate to accept. He made his debut in a loss against Germany and is set to play against Croatia in the World Cup qualifiers. Sarur described the call-up as a major milestone, saying, "The national team is my dream. When Ariel called, I didn’t hesitate. I told him, just tell me when and where."

Sarur’s journey to the national team was marked by challenges, including a serious injury during the 2024-25 season while playing for Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan. After initially training normally, he developed pain and was diagnosed with a major tear that sidelined him for about a year. He described the injury as a difficult period but remains optimistic about his recovery and future. Since returning to play with Elitzur Netanya in February, Sarur has aimed to prove he belongs at the highest levels of Israeli basketball.

Balancing his religious lifestyle with professional sports has also been a challenge for Sarur. During the recent training camp in Latvia, which coincided with the fast of the 17th of Tammuz, he maintained his religious commitments while preparing for games. The team supported him by arranging meals from a nearby Chabad house. Sarur emphasized the importance of defense under coach Beit Halachmi’s strategy and acknowledged the team’s physical disadvantages against taller opponents like Germany but stressed the need for focus and effort.

Despite some key players missing from the national team roster, Sarur said the team’s spirit and determination remain strong, with no excuses made. He also addressed questions about his preference for tight basketball shorts and his ongoing work to improve his free-throw shooting, which he described as partly a mental challenge. Sarur hopes his national team exposure will open doors to larger clubs and further his career.

Sarur’s story highlights resilience and dedication as he transitions from injury recovery to representing Israel on the international basketball stage.