In light of the horrific Hamas attack in Israel over the weekend, Washington Wizards forward Deni Avdija has been hit especially hard emotionally. The NBA player is not only from the Jewish nation – he also has family and friends who were lost in the assault.
Deni Avdija during the 2022-23 season | SCREENSHOT: Washington Wizards/YouTube
There has been literal terror in the streets of Israel following this weekend’s Hamas attacks. At least 260 people have been confirmed dead thus far, with 11 believed to be American citizens, according to Reuters. Israel has responded by formally declaring war, something they had not done since the Yom Kippur War of 1973. And in light of the events, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly vowed to destroy Hamas entirely.
As the only player in the league who is from Israel, Avdija felt the need to address the attack on his homeland.
“While I’m here playing ball, my thoughts are constantly pulled back to Israel,” said in a statement on Monday. “This past Saturday, terrorists from Hamas and Islamic Jihad unleashed devastation in 21 spots across Gaza.”
“They mercilessly murdered and slaughtered innocent children, women, and elders — some at home, others during a party while celebrating a holiday. The haunting images of women, children, and elders being taken into Gaza, many meeting a tragic end, remain etched in my memory.
“Knowing some victims personally adds another layer to my heartache.”
Deni Avidja was drafted by Washington with the 9th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. As a contributor for the Wizards, he has developed his pro game nicely in three seasons, posting career highs in points, rebounds, and assists in the 2022-23 season.
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