Former New York Knicks assistant coach Brad Greenberg has been named the new coach of Hapoel Jerusalem – and much is expected of him in his first season in the Israeli capital.
The 59-year-old was surprisingly let go by Maccabi Haifa just weeks after leading the Greens to an historic Basketball Super League title in June. However it is no surprise that he has found his feet and will be relishing the opportunity to take control of team affairs at what is expected to be a rejuvenated Jerusalem side next season.
Jerusalem’s Malha Arena has become a shadow of its former raucous self after fans have witnessed poor performances and a failure to reach the final game of the Israeli league championship for the last six seasons. But the news that a dynamic group of businessmen, including former Jerusalemite Ori Allon and NBA star Amar’e Stoudemire, have taken ownership of the club has created renewed optimism at the team which had previously been seen as the one big rival to Maccabi Tel Aviv’s crown.
“I am happy with the opportunity i have been given to coach one of the biggest clubs in Israeli basketball,” said Greenberg, who signed a three-year contract. “I have always admired Hapoel and its fans, and I am happy that this season I will be standing on the sidelines at Malha.
Greenberg said his aim is to “build a winning team”. “I will do everything in order to make our fans happy and so they will enjoy the basketball in the coming seasons.”
He is currently coaching the USA basketball team at the Maccabiah Games, where he has already led the side to an opening loss to Argentina.
Brad Greenbeg (Hapoel Jerusalem website)
All-Sport Israel 