While international news is shaken by the war between Israel and Hamas, more than 9,000 kilometers from the conflict, Nets players are wondering.
A few hours before the reception of the Israeli club Maccabi Ra’anana at the Barclays Center, Nick Claxton wonders for example if it is really necessary to play this match, given the seriousness of the situation.
“ We send all our thoughts and sympathy to the players. But I don’t know if we should play. Personally, I think we shouldn’t “, admits in fact the pivot of Brooklyn, which ensures that the subject was discussed collectively among the players. “ There are more important things in the world than basketball. »
Maccabi plays three matches in the United States
Then Jacque Vaughn to ensure that if the match will go ahead, it is because Maccabi asked for it. On site for a week, the Israeli club must then travel to Cleveland and Minnesota, and on the sporting level, it announced the reinforcement, for this tour, of Bruno Caboclo and Dwyane Bacon.
“ We have been in contact with Maccabi recently, and they have assured us several times that they want to play this match », Declares the Nets coach, compassionate. “ Tonight I will pray for peace, like every evening. The peace [pour Israël], and peace in the world. That’s all I have to say on the subject. »
Confirmation by the Israeli club which spoke on social networks. Maccabi Ra’anana believes that this match is a way to support and pay tribute to the locals and the army. Players will wear a black ribbon to pay tribute to the victims of this weekend.
The final word for the ghost Harry Gilesfor whom the tragic news in the Middle East allows us to put things into perspective, while his career in the NBA has until now been complicated.
“ I’m still so grateful to get up every morning to do what I love », concludes the former Duke player. “ I regret what they are going through right now. I send them all my sympathy, and let them know that, in some way, we will be there for them. »
