Israeli NBA star Deni Avdija reacts to the decision to choose him to light an Independence Day torch. ‘I try every day to represent Israel with honor.’
Israeli NBA basketball player Deni Avdija reacted on Tuesday to the announcement that he was selected to light a torch at the state Independence Day opening ceremony on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem.
“I am excited and proud of the great privilege given to me to light a torch on the State of Israel’s Independence Day. This is an especially moving personal and family moment for me, and at the same time a national moment, that symbolizes my connection to the nation and state.”
Avdija, who plays for the Portland Trail Blazers and has had a record-setting season, said that “as an Israeli representative in the NBA, I try every day to represent Israel with honor, responsibility, and pride. I see the lighting of the torch not only as recognition of the journey I’ve taken, but also a commitment to continue serving as a bridge between cultures, setting an example for the youth, and an inspiration that with faith, hard work, and a dream, everything is possible. This historic moment will be engraved in my memory forever.”
Upon announcing Avdija’s selection, Minister Regev stated: “He is an exceptional leader on and off the field. He is an example of how to aspire to the highest level, without losing our roots, values, and national responsibility.”
