Saša Obradović Leads Hapoel Jerusalem to a Perfect Start and EuroLeague Dreams
Under head coach Saša Obradović, Hapoel Jerusalem has opened the 2026/2027 season with an 11-0 record, boasting the best defense in Europe and fueling strong EuroLeague ambitions.
Hapoel Jerusalem is experiencing a dream start to the 2026/2027 season, maintaining an unblemished 11-0 record across all domestic and European competitions under the leadership of head coach Saša Obradović. Three years after reaching new heights under Aleksandar Džikić, the club realized that transitioning from a EuroCup contender to a permanent EuroLeague fixture required an elite, proven tactician.
Building a Winning Culture
Before the conclusion of the previous campaign, Hapoel secured the services of the 57-year-old Serbian coach on a lucrative contract worth 700,000 dollars per season. Obradović brings an impressive pedigree to Jerusalem, highlighted by his tenure at Monaco, where he guided the French club to the EuroLeague Final Four and established them among Europe's elite.
Known historically for a fiery and demanding temperament, Obradović has displayed a more balanced and measured approach in the Israeli capital. While maintaining absolute authority and high tactical standards, he fosters close personal relationships with his players, earning their total commitment on the floor.
Defensive Identity and Smart Recruitment
Despite missing star guard Jared Harper due to injury, Hapoel boasts the premier defense in both the domestic league and the EuroCup, conceding an average of just 73.5 points in European play. A cornerstone of this success has been the inspired recruitment of Kenny Lofton Jr., alongside the disciplined integration of the squad's core.
Local basketball analyst Rami Mendel noted the profound impact of the coach's stature: "The players stand before a genuine EuroLeague coach whom nobody challenges. He assembled this group, and they fight for him with everything they have."
