Yotam Halperin, the former captain of the National Team who is currently playing with Hapoel Jerusalem has seen many international competitions and has represented the Blue & White for many years. The veteran guard spoke about the honor of one again donning the Israel uniform with the Eurobasket being held in the Holy Land:

The importance of playing for the National Team:
“I’m very happy to be a part of the Israel National Team. The National Team always puts a smile on your face every time you are part of it and the fact that it’s in Israel this year will give us an extra push. I have been playing with the National Team since I was 13 years old and now I’m almost 34. So it’s been almost 20 years that I have been doing this. I think that any Israeli player who gets the opportunity to play for the National Team is something that he will remember far after his career is over.” 

Being role models:
“I feel that our players this campaign are role models and their personalities, commitment and motivation to be part of this project to help the National Team is amazing. There won’t be room for everyone this summer, only 12 players will be on the team, but players that don’t make this roster will make the next and that’s because of their personalities and commitment which is at the highest of levels.”

Having the Eurobasket in Israel:
“This was a very big dream and I believe that Israeli basketball has been on the rise. I also think that what is happening with the younger National Teams is giving us a lot of hope that we will be able to produce even better players in the future. It’s really amazing that the Eurobasket will be in Israel and the crowd will be able to see us up close and personal. Basketball will be played at a very high level as people from all over the world will descend upon the country for what will be a great experience for those who love the game of basketball.”