Alon Michaeli Leads Israel’s Under-20 EuroBasket Charge with Relentless Passion

Israel’s Under-20 basketball team has burst out of the gates at the European Championship in Crete with commanding performances including a thrilling 79–74 victory over powerhouse Spain and a decisive rout of Finland. At the heart of this surging squad is 19-year-old Alon Michaeli, a rising talent who blends grit, grace, and a quiet confidence that’s igniting blue-and-white hopes across the continent.

Standing at 2.03 meters, Michaeli is redefining the role of a big man. Agile, intelligent, and blessed with a soft touch around the rim, the Bnei Herzliya center is stepping into a leadership role alongside Purdue’s standout guard Omer Mayer. The chemistry between the two is evident they’ve been teammates on Israel’s youth squads since 2021 and now, on Europe’s biggest youth stage, they’re rewriting expectations once again.

“This is my last youth championship,” Michaeli said. “So I’m a little bit sad, but also incredibly excited. We want to finish this on a high note and make it unforgettable.”

That determination has become a trademark of Michaeli’s journey. From his early days in Kfar Saba’s basketball programs, where he followed in the footsteps of his older brother Yuval, to making his Premier League debut as a high school junior, Michaeli has consistently stood out for his work ethic and composure. Last season, he logged meaningful minutes for Herzliya and helped lead Elitzur Netanya to promotion a milestone he called “one of the happiest moments” of his young career.

Off the court, Michaeli exudes humility. He speaks passionately about his teammates, the lessons he’s learned from his coaches, and his gratitude for being part of a team that’s more like a brotherhood. He still remembers the spark he felt watching Israel’s U-19 squad finish seventh in the World Cup just weeks ago. “It whetted our appetite,” he said. “We all stayed after practice just to watch them.”

Michaeli’s grounded approach is matched by his ambition. While rumors swirl about a possible move to the U.S. college circuit, he remains laser-focused on the present. “My sole focus is on the championship that’s where my mind is,” he emphasized.

That clarity is yielding results. With a coach like Sharon Avrahami giving him room to grow and lead, and a roster brimming with talent, Israel has a real chance to recapture the magic of its 2018 and 2019 EuroBasket titles.

Michaeli’s story is one of steady ascent, shaped by family, community, and an unrelenting drive to improve. Whether or not he eventually takes his talents overseas, one thing is certain: Alon Michaeli is playing with heart, for his team and for his country and he’s just getting started.

Share this story and subscribe to our newsletter for more on the future stars of the Jewish state.