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The teenage basketball stars chasing an American dream
Team Maccabi GB will be sending out two 5x5 basketball squads to next month’s JCC Maccabi Campus Games.
July 16, 2025 07:53
Team Maccabi GB will be sending out two 5x5 basketball squads to next month’s JCC Maccabi Campus Games.
July 16, 2025 07:53The younger group comprises nine U15 players who will be coached and managed by Gil Levy.
He said: “We have a young group of guys with developing talent, with the goal being to keep developing them to compete at U17s level and higher. “We’re always looking for new players and invite others to keep trying out.”
Most of those chosen are London-based and junior national league players, with a few experienced at competing at secondary-school level.
For nine of the squad this will be their first JCC Maccabi Games. “This will be their way of gaining valuable competitive experience, especially against their US-based peers,” Levy observed.
In terms of their preparation for the Games, the GB squad’s training schedule sees them take part in two high-intensity sessions each week, with the players regularly competing against the U17s team and taking part in friendly matches. Levy said: “This not only challenges them but also provides a clear benchmark to aspire to. “Given the limited time before the tournament, our preparation is both demanding and purposeful. “In addition to physical training, we place strong emphasis on mental resilience, team cohesion and how the players present themselves as ambassadors of Team Maccabi GB while abroad.”
Looking forward to what awaits them stateside, he continued: “The players are extremely excited to take part in the event and proud to represent their country on an international stage. “We hope they gain valuable experience, build confidence, and develop both as athletes and individuals through the competition and cultural exchange.” Levy expects tough conditions once the Games get under way.
He said: “The team will need to contend with the hot and humid weather in Pittsburgh, a packed – but fun – schedule, as well as their US and Israeli peers who typically play at a higher standard.
“But we’re there to try our best and put in 100 per cent effort on the court.
“As a former Maccabi GB tournament player and having played semi-pro years ago, it’s an opportunity to help Maccabi GB’s next generation of players.
“I run a family office investment platform and for me it’s a privilege to be able to contribute my time by volunteering to coach these athletes.
“In fact, one of the players has already mentioned he’d like to coach when he’s older.
“This experience will benefit them both in sport and in life.
“While we coach with a winning mindset, our greater goal is to help each player become the best version of themselves, both individually and as part of the team.
“As long as they give their all on the court, we’re happy for them to enjoy themselves off it, while connecting and socialising with fellow members of the tribe.
“Winning is great for team morale, but so is making the right pass, scoring a basket, or pushing through a tough game – those are personal victories that build lasting confidence.”
Squad: Yosef Bialoguski, Eli Sacks, Ariel Levy, Toby Eder, Jordan Schulman, Henry Kormind, Rafi Shakhani, Sade Lopian, Eden Shelley
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