Bnei Herzliya face Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Israel State Cup on Thursday, after the club stunned Hapoel Holon with an 81-83 loss on 2025-05-18. The team enters the match on a run of 3 wins and 2 defeats (LLWWW), with coach Oren Aharoni steering the offense.
What’s happening now?
Zufer Avdija, father of Deni Avdija and sports director of Bnei Herzliya, spoke to The Sport Rabbi about how the club returned to the top after almost being relegated less than a year ago. He said building a quality roster was a core task, and the team now tops the league standings.
Why does it matter for Bnei Herzliya?
The jump from two consecutive losses to league leadership shows a major strategic shift. Avdija notes the change stems from hiring a young coach, Oren Aharoni, who came from Maccabi Tel Aviv’s youth department, and players like Chinanu Onukau who dominate the paint.
How are they strengthening the roster?
Avdija opted for five foreign players but avoided relying on a single star like Scottie Wilbekin. “If he isn’t feeling well in the morning, I don’t want to pray for a quick replacement,” he said. Instead, he highlights the team’s ego‑free culture and ability to execute pick‑and‑roll and fast‑break sets.
What’s next after the State Cup?
A victory would add the State Cup to Bnei Herzliya’s 2026 trophy cabinet and keep them at the league’s summit. The club atmosphere is described as "a place I enjoy," and the coach says the squad is ready for any challenge, even against lower‑table opponents.
Who’s behind the success?
First‑year head coach Oren Aharoni brings a decade of experience from Maccabi Tel Aviv’s youth system and roles with Israel’s national youth teams. He is mentored by Avdija, who offers over 23 years of youth coaching and two years as an assistant with senior squads.