David Moses: The Israeli Basketball 'Unicorn' Taking Europe by Storm
Standing 2.10 meters tall with rare mobility and shooting range, 18-year-old David Moses is redefining the Israeli big man. From a player lacking coordination to a star at the European Youth Championship and a future NCAA recruit, this is the story of a 'late bloomer' becoming a unique talent.
In basketball, a "unicorn" refers to a very tall player (usually over 2.08 m) who possesses a rare combination of skills traditionally reserved for guards, alongside the natural advantages of a post player. In other words, it is a player who breaks the traditional molds of basketball positions. All these traits apply to 18-year-old David Moses, who is currently starring for the Israeli national team at the European Youth Championship.
A 2.10 m forward/center (doctors say he could still grow), Moses combines ball-handling and post-up play with a reliable shot from beyond the arc. After three games, his statistical line is impressive: 24 points and 12.3 rebounds per game, including 19 rebounds in the opener against Greece. In a recent 84:80 win over Austria, Moses contributed 21 points and 9 rebounds.
The Path to Success
The nickname "unicorn" followed his development as a "late bloomer." His breakthrough began at age 15 with a move from Hapoel Holon to A.S. Ramat Hasharon.
"Until three years ago, he didn't really play; he had almost no minutes," says Guy Kantor, his coach at Ramat Hasharon. "When he joined us, he was 1.98 m and not very mobile. But we started working with him every day, and within three years, he showed an abnormal improvement curve in technical aspects and game understanding. Every parameter of his game is improving impressively."
Last season, Moses was promoted to the senior team at Ramat Hasharon, where he averaged 9.5 points and 4.7 rebounds in 16.5 minutes during the promotion playoffs. He peaked in a playoff game against Ironi Nahariya, recording a double-double of 21 points and 13 rebounds.
College and National Team Future
Moses' next step is a move to Florida Atlantic University, having received elite athlete status from the Basketball Association and the IDF.
Former player Amit Bir-Katz, who works with Moses on individual skills, notes: "David is a true unicorn. It took him time to connect his hands to his legs and his head, but he is still in the process. He has the ability to shoot inside and outside and has beautiful touch with both hands. If he continues with the right guidance, he will be the next big thing in basketball."
Avi Even, former sports director at Maccabi Tel Aviv, adds: "He has basketball IQ and athleticism. His work ethic is not something you see in normal kids; it's a demanding framework. He works with us outside of team practices three times a week. The potential is infinite. It's not for nothing that the senior national team plans to invite him to the upcoming windows—that is a very serious statement."
