Omri Casspi is the first Israeli to be chosen in the first round of the NBA draft. The 6ft 9” forward was selected in 23rd place by the Sacramento Kings.

Four other Israelis were previously selected in the second round of the draft but did make a single appearance in the NBA.

Maccabi Tel Aviv star Casspi described the news as “a dream come true. It is a great day for me, my family and Israeli basketball.”

In America to negotiate his contract, Casspi, 21, surprised officials by choosing the number 13 shirt - his lucky number.

Jordan Farmar, the only Jewish player in the NBA last season, is set to leave the LA Lakers just months after helping the team win the NBA title.