Key Points
• Hapoel Jerusalem is one of Israel’s most successful basketball clubs, with multiple domestic titles and international achievements. The team has won the Israeli Basketball Premier League title twice and has a passionate fan base playing at the Pais Arena Jerusalem.
• The club has experienced significant growth and success since 2013 when it was purchased by a group of investors led by Ori Allon. This change in ownership, along with moving to the Pais Arena in 2014, has led to increased financial stability and improved on-court performance.
History and Founding
Hapoel Jerusalem is a professional basketball club based in Jerusalem, Israel. Incorporated in 1943, the team has a rich history spanning nearly eight decades. Initially established as part of the Hapoel sports association, the club has grown to become one of the most prominent basketball teams in Israel and a regular competitor in European competitions.
Domestic Success
Throughout its history, Hapoel Jerusalem has achieved considerable success in domestic competitions. The team has won the Israeli Basketball Premier League title twice, in the 2014-15 and 2017 seasons, breaking the long-standing dominance of Maccabi Tel Aviv. Additionally, Hapoel Jerusalem has claimed the Israeli State Cup six times, with their most recent victory coming in 2019.
European Competitions
Hapoel Jerusalem has also made its mark in European basketball competitions. The club’s most significant international achievement came in 2004 when they won the ULEB Cup (now known as the EuroCup). This victory marked the first time an Israeli team had won a European-wide competition in basketball. The team continues to participate regularly in European tournaments, including the Basketball Champions League and EuroCup, maintaining consistent competitiveness.
Home Arena and Fan Base
Since 2014, the team has played its home games at the Pais Arena Jerusalem, a modern 11,600-seat arena. This state-of-the-art facility has helped elevate the club’s profile and improve the fan experience. Hapoel Jerusalem boasts a passionate and loyal fan base, known for creating an electric atmosphere during home games.
Recent Developments
In 2013, the club underwent a significant change when it was purchased by a group of investors led by tech entrepreneur Ori Allon. This acquisition brought increased financial stability and ambition to the team. Since then, Hapoel Jerusalem has seen improved on-court performance, including their first Israeli league title in 2014-15, followed by another in 2017, and consistent competitiveness in European competitions.
Notable Players and Coaches
Over the years, Hapoel Jerusalem has been home to many talented players and coaches. Israeli basketball legends such as Oded Katash and Doron Sheffer have worn the team’s colors. The club has also attracted international talent, including former NBA players like Amar’e Stoudemire, who signed a two-year contract with Hapoel Jerusalem on August 1, 2016. Stoudemire helped the team win the Israeli Basketball League Cup in his first season and later became a part-owner.
In conclusion, Hapoel Jerusalem stands as a testament to the growth and development of Israeli basketball. With its rich history, passionate fan base, and recent successes, the club continues to be a major force in both domestic and European basketball scenes.
