For the first time in the country's history, Israel's national under-20 basketball team took home the gold at the FIBA European Championship, beating previously undefeated Croatia 89-66 Sunday evening in Chemnitz, Germany.
Yuval Zusman, who took home the tournament's Most Valuable Player award, was outstanding in the title game, finishing with 17 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists.
"Last year the Greeks were better than us in the final. This time we were mentally strong, sharp and focused every game. We realized by the middle of the tournament that we can do this, but we didn't say anything so as not to cause a distraction," an emotional Zusman said following the victory.
"I know how good I am and whatever the coaches ask of me I'll do. I'm happy they gave me the opportunity to play my [style of] basketball," he added.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Reuven Rivlin and Sports Minister Miri Regev all praised the team for the historic win.
"To beat France and Croatia sounds like the World Cup," Netanyayhu tweeted. "This is a marvelous achievement and we are all proud of you. I am waiting to meet you at my office in Jerusalem. Truly, congratulations!"
Rivlin thanked the "wonderful" players and coach Ariel Beit-Halahmi for "bringing us this great honor."
"This is a historic achievement, you won this trophy for all of Israel and I am very proud of you," Regev said in a statement. "You beat team after team, proving that you are truly worthy of being European Champions."
The team was expected to return to Israel on Monday afternoon and in the coming days will be hosted by the president and prime minister.
