Sports · Full coverage
Jalen Smith Embraces Playing in Jerusalem Ahead of Croatia-Israel Basketball Clash
How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
100% center
Center 2
First reported by N12 · Jul 5, 2026
What happened
Jalen Smith, newly naturalized Croatian and first signing of Hapoel Jerusalem, will play for Croatia against Israel in their final World Cup qualifier on Monday. Croatia aims to secure a win following a big victory over Cyprus, while Israel seeks a positive finish. Smith highlighted his excitement about playing in Jerusalem and his connection with coach Sasha Obradovic.
- 01Jalen Smith, Croatian naturalized guard, will face Israel in Monday's World Cup qualifier.
- 02Smith is the first signing of Hapoel Jerusalem for the upcoming season.
- 03Croatia recently defeated Cyprus 123-50 ahead of the Israel match.
- 04Israel, coached by Ariel Beit Halachmi, aims to end qualifiers with a win.
- 05Smith praised Jerusalem as a holy city and discussed family adjustments.
- 06He confirmed communication with Hapoel Jerusalem coach Sasha Obradovic.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
In this story
People
Full coverage · 2 outlets
The same event, reported separately by each newsroom. Open a few to compare what each emphasizes — and what they leave out.
Related stories
Jalen Smith Details Conversation That Led to Signing with Hapoel JerusalemAug 3, 2026Hapoel Jerusalem Negotiating With Veteran Guard Jaleen SmithJun 15, 2026Hapoel Jerusalem signs guard Jaleen Smith for two yearsJun 17, 2026Israel Faces Croatia in Final Group Stage Basketball Qualifier with Playoff Spot SecuredJul 6, 2026Justin Smith Leaves Hapoel Jerusalem After Two Seasons, Joins Buducnost MontenegroJul 7, 2026Ivica Zubac Praises Deni Avdija Ahead of Croatia-Israel World Cup QualifierJul 5, 2026
