The Jerusalem Post - Israel News

Deni Avdija

Deni Avdija’s breakout season lifts Israeli hoops

As the only Israeli currently playing in the NBA, Avdija carries the weight of representing an entire nation and a global Jewish community that passionately follows his every move.

|ByJERUSALEM POST SPORTS STAFF
ISRAELI FORWARD Deni Avdija has been playing at an All-Star level over the past few weeks for the Portland Trail Blazers in his first year with the club, and fifth NBA season overall.
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS Israel forward Deni Avdija (left) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers defender Isaac Okoro during the Cavs' 133-129 overtime victory. Avdija had a triple-double with 30 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists in defeat.

Avdija first Israeli with NBA triple-double

In the final moments, Avdija had a chance to cap his historic night with a game-winning three-pointer, but the shot missed, sealing Portland’s defeat.

|ByJERUSALEM POST SPORTS STAFF
DENI AVDIJA (left) is greeted by new Portland Trail Blazers teammate Scoot Henderson (right) this week in the locker room.

Israel’s Deni Avdija embraces new challenge with Portland

Portland is a great spot for the 6-foot-9 Israeli, and the club has been eyeing him for some time.

|ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
DENI AVDIJA made a big jump last year and was an attractive offseason target for a number of teams. The Portland Trail Blazers ultimately got him.

NBA: Israel’s Avdija traded from DC to Portland

After first four seasons with Wizards, 23-year-old forward on the move to revamped Trail Blazers

|ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN

Israeli star Deni Avdija is poised for a big year as new NBA season begins

Avdija has also become one of the more outspoken Jewish players in all of sports on issues relating to Israel and antisemitism.

OCTOBER 25, 2023
ByJACOB GURVIS/JTA
DENI AVDIJA will have many new teammates next season on the Washington Wizards, and the team looks like it will have a new minority owner as well.

Jewish player Amari Bailey drafted 41st overall by the Charlotte Hornets

Bailey’s new team, the Hornets, is in the process of being sold by basketball legend Michael Jordan to a group led by Jewish millionaires Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall.

JUNE 24, 2023
ByJACOB GURVIS/JTA
Basketball

Pair of tight triumphs has Israel at 2-0 in the EuroBasket preliminary round

Avdija & co. follow up overtime dramatics vs Finland with a 4th-quarter rally to beat the Netherlands.

SEPTEMBER 4, 2022
ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
DENI AVDIJA has been Israel’s high scorer with 21 and 23 points, respectively, in victories over Finland and the Netherlands to open the blue-and-white Eurobasket campaign.

Basketball: Deni Avdija relishing opportunity to propel Israel

As for bringing home a medal in the Eurobasket, Avdija is certain that this version of the Israel National Team has a chance to do just that.

AUGUST 31, 2022
ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
WHILE STILL only 21, Deni Avdija has the presence of a grizzled veteran on the Israel National Team, which tips off its Eurobasket campaign this weekend

Avdija, Israel prep for Eurobasket, World Cup qualifiers

The Israel National Team is no question a work in progress. Despite not having what would be considered the best prep possible, the coach isn't concerned. He also has Deni Avdija.

AUGUST 24, 2022
ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
DENI AVDIJA is the anchor of the Israel national basketball team and hopes to lead the blue-and-white to international success this summer.

Avdija makes Blue & White return

NBA phenom Deni Avdija scored 25 points in Israel's 95-86 win against Auburn University's Men's Basketball team.

AUGUST 10, 2022
ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
WASHINGTON WIZARDS forward Deni Avdija goes for a layup against the Toronto Raptors.

Avdija back in Holy Land after impressive sophomore season with Wizards

In the offseason, Avdija will work on a number of areas of his game to continue to improve his on-court skills.

APRIL 26, 2022
ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
DENI AVDIJA demonstrated his value in his second season in the NBA with the Washington Wizards, with the 21-year-old Israeli swingman playing in all 82 games.

Deni Avdija draws Stars of David on his sneakers as violence surges in Israel

After multiple violent attacks in Israel in the past week, Israeli NBA star Deni Avdija used his platform to express support for his home country.

APRIL 1, 2022
ByJACOB GURVIS/JTA
THE WASHINGTON WIZARDS face a roster crunch with players back from injury and there are several teams said to covet second-year Israeli Deni Avdija.

What’s in the cards for Deni Avdija?

With fluctuating minutes and a trade deadline near, the Washington Wizards may have an Israeli sophomore on the market.

JANUARY 20, 2022
ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
THE WASHINGTON WIZARDS face a roster crunch with players back from injury and there are several teams said to covet second-year Israeli Deni Avdija.

The Deni effect in Deni Avidija's NBA career - comment

Depending on his longevity, Avdija has a chance to become an unofficial ambassador for Israel, similar to the likes of Gal Gadot.

NOVEMBER 21, 2021
ByGABRIEL TURNER
WASHINGTON WIZARDS forward Deni Avdija goes for a layup against the Toronto Raptors.

New season, new goals for Deni Avdija

Back from injury for the Washington Wizards, Israeli sophomore preaches patience and growth.

OCTOBER 21, 2021
ByJOSHUA HALICKMAN
DENI AVDIJA (left) defends against Toronto Raptors’ guard Dalano Banton during the Washington Wizards’ season opener late Wednesday night. The Israeli forward had eight points and seven rebounds in the Wizards’ 98-83 victory.