Uri Levi Reflects on Miki Berkovich's Legendary Basketball Career and Recent Health Struggles

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Uri Levi honors Miki Berkovich, Israel's basketball legend, recalling their shared history and Berkovich's illustrious career. Despite recent health struggles now public, Berkovich remains surrounded by family and is to receive the Israel Prize in sports.

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Miki Berkovich is celebrated as Israel's greatest basketball player with numerous European and Israeli titles.
Uri Levi documented Berkovich's career in a film before his retirement and maintained close contact.
Berkovich's health declined over recent years, with his condition becoming public only recently.
Levi conducted a final interview with Berkovich at age 70, capturing his story despite moments of confusion.
Berkovich is surrounded by family and will receive the Israel Prize for his sports achievements.
The nation mourns Berkovich's health struggles and honors his legacy in Israeli basketball.

Uri Levi, a sports journalist, shares a personal tribute to Miki Berkovich, Israel's greatest basketball player, reflecting on their parallel journeys from youth to Berkovich's retirement. Levi recalls filming a documentary titled "Jersey Number 9" about Berkovich's career at age 38, capturing his rise to basketball royalty and his numerous European titles and Israeli championships. Despite missing an opportunity in the NBA, Levi believes the league missed out on Berkovich's talent.

About two and a half years ago, Levi first heard of Berkovich's health decline but was reassured by Berkovich himself. When Berkovich turned 70, Levi conducted a final career-spanning interview with him, with his wife Shelly's permission, deliberately avoiding mention of his illness. Berkovich was alert and enthusiastic during the interview, though occasionally confused, sharing his story with shining eyes. This interview aired two years ago and was likely his last.

Levi later learned from Moti Arusti that Berkovich's condition had worsened, leading to public awareness of his struggle yesterday, which saddened the nation. Levi expresses gratitude for having known Berkovich and comfort that he is surrounded by loving family. Berkovich is set to receive the Israel Prize in sports, honoring his legendary contribution to Israeli basketball, including bringing the European Cup to Tel Aviv.

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