Ben Saraf Ready for Backcourt Battle Ahead of Second NBA Season with Nets
Israeli guard Ben Saraf enters his second NBA season with the Brooklyn Nets, expressing readiness for fierce backcourt competition and praising the maturity brought by veterans like Julius Randle.
Ben Saraf enters his second NBA season no longer as a rookie trying to figure out the league. Speaking at the Brooklyn Nets media day ahead of the 2026/27 season, the Israeli guard sounded fully aware of the battle awaiting him—and above all, ready for it.
Saraf, who is locked in a direct competition for backcourt minutes with several young and veteran players, addressed the expected competition. "For me, I think it will only help the team. It's always good when you have healthy competition. I think it pushes everyone to be the best version of themselves, and then of course it will help us as a team," he said.
Readiness for the Battle
He then added the sentence that perhaps best summarizes his mindset for the upcoming season: "I feel like I'm ready for the competition. Everyone has to fight for their minutes, and I'm ready for it."
Reflecting on his summer, Saraf noted that he feels much more comfortable within the organization and with his teammates. He worked extensively on his shooting and spent significant time in the weight room, believing the Nets can outperform expectations this year.
The Impact of Veterans
One of the main talking points around Brooklyn is how the arrival of experienced players will impact the young squad. Saraf specifically highlighted Julius Randle, who brings winning experience to the franchise.
"I think they bring a lot of maturity to our group, something we lacked last year. We are all grateful they are here to help us," Saraf said.
