Israeli Basketball Star Gal Raviv Eyes WNBA Dream After Historic U20 Silver Medal
Gal Raviv, a rising Israeli basketball guard, recently led the national U20 team to a historic silver medal at the European Championship, earning a spot on the tournament's all-star five and breaking multiple records. Despite her outstanding performance, she narrowly missed the MVP title. In a special interview on "Double Dribble," Raviv discussed the team's strong bond, her move to the United States at age 15, her college basketball experience, and her ambition to reach the WNBA.
Raviv explained that winning a medal was a goal from the start of the summer, though reaching the final was less certain. She emphasized the unique camaraderie among her teammates, many of whom have played together for years, which helped overcome her initial feelings of being an outsider due to her time abroad. She moved to the U.S. at 15 after receiving an unexpected offer and had previously joined a basketball academy in Israel at around age 11.
Comparing European basketball to the U.S. college system, Raviv noted that she felt restricted during her first year at the University of Miami due to a new coach and system, but found freedom and confidence playing for the national team. She chose Miami over larger programs to ensure playing time and leadership opportunities. Raviv shared a story illustrating her emerging leadership, where she confronted a teammate who was not fully committed during practice.
Regarding the recent influx of money into college basketball, Raviv called it a welcome bonus but not the main focus. She identified physical strength as a key area for improvement to compete in the WNBA, acknowledging the challenges European players face adapting to the league's athletic and physical style. She also discussed cultural differences and the competitive environment American players create, citing the example of Caitlin Clark, whose success has been met with mixed reactions.
Raviv is optimistic about the growth of women's basketball in the U.S., noting packed arenas and new leagues. She believes excelling in a top college program and building connections are essential steps toward the WNBA. Looking ahead five years, she hopes to be an All-Star in the league. She recently attended a Miami Heat game featuring Israeli NBA player Deni Avdija, whom she regards as the face of Israeli basketball and a role model for her own aspirations.
