Jalen Smith Details Conversation That Led to Signing with Hapoel Jerusalem

Hapoel Jerusalem is assembling an intriguing roster this summer, highlighted by the recent signing of guard Jalen Smith. In an interview with Meridian, Smith recounted the pivotal conversation with newly appointed head coach Sasha Obradovic that convinced him to join the team. Obradovic explained the role he envisioned for Smith, emphasizing that he would be a leading figure on the court alongside teammates Jared Harper and Shake Milton. "It's encouraging when a coach believes in you and says, 'I'll give you the ball and you do something with it,'" Smith said.

Smith also praised Obradovic's background as a former player, noting it allows the coach to understand players' perspectives and be receptive to their input. Smith expressed hope to play European games in Jerusalem, though he acknowledged the uncertain situation might require playing some matches in Belgrade. Regarding the upcoming EuroCup season, Smith predicted tougher competition than last year and highlighted that Cedi Osman will be playing for PAOK, calling it "crazy" and "unbelievable."