If NBA draft projections from the U.S. are any indication, Ben Saraf has plenty of reasons to be optimistic. Just days ago, Sports Illustrated ranked the Israeli guard from German club Ratiopharm Ulm at No. 18 in its latest mock draft. Now, in the middle of his season in Germany and with glowing reports coming from across the Atlantic, Saraf has arrived in Israel to join the national team for its final two EuroBasket qualifying games.
With qualification already secured, Israel will face Portugal on Friday and Slovenia on Monday, both games taking place in Riga. Before departing, the 18-year-old spoke exclusively with Yedioth Ahronoth about his breakthrough season and the high expectations for him to become the next Israeli star in the world’s best basketball league.
'Nothing like Israel'
How does it feel to return to the national team from abroad?
"It's always fun. From the moment I land, I feel the difference — people here are warm, my family and friends are here. I miss that warmth in Germany. It’s not that there’s no warmth there, just not like in Israel. And I miss my mom’s cooking too, even though she visits a lot. I’m simply happier here."
Israel will be shorthanded in the upcoming games, especially in the backcourt, with key players like Tamir Blatt, Yam Madar, and naturalized guard Kadin Carrington unavailable. Coach Ariel Beit-Halahmi will also be missing Tomer Ginat, Yovel Zoosman, Roman Sorkin, and Deni Avdija, leaving the squad without many experienced leaders. That could open the door for Saraf to take on a bigger role.
Where do you see yourself in the team’s hierarchy in this window?
"I’ll do whatever the coaching staff asks of me. Defense is really important to Ariel (Beit-Halahmi), so I know I need to step up on that end. I understand that I have more responsibility now, but I’m not afraid of it — I love it. I always want to lead."
This summer will be crucial for you. Do you see yourself playing for the senior national team in EuroBasket, the U-19 team at the World Cup, or focusing on the NBA if you get drafted?
"I hope to be with the national team, but I really don’t know yet. I haven’t thought about it much or looked into it."
Adjusting to life in Germany
Israeli fans haven’t had many chances to see Saraf up close. After one season in Israel’s top league with Ironi Kiryat Ata, he signed a two-year deal last summer with Germany's Ratiopharm Ulm to gain playing time and confidence at the European level. In his first EuroCup season, he’s averaging 12.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in nearly 25 minutes per game.
How has the transition to Germany been?
"I’m really enjoying it. The coaches, staff and teammates welcomed me warmly. At first, it was tough being away from my family and friends, but I’ve adjusted. We do a lot of video calls, I try to stay connected, and I even play PlayStation with my friends remotely. I thought it would be harder, but I’m managing well — it’s been great."
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Do you ever feel lonely?
"Sometimes, yes, but my family visits often, and my friends have come too. They do a great job of keeping me company."
What do you do in your free time?
"There’s an Israeli family that reached out to me on Instagram, and I spend a lot of time at their place, even for Friday night dinners. Their kids are my age, so we hang out. You get used to the quiet and find ways to stay busy. Recently, I bought a guitar — I don’t know how to play yet, but I’m learning. But honestly, I don’t have much free time. There are so many games and trips."
Do you feel like living in Germany has changed you?
"I’ve become much more independent. I’ve learned to take care of myself — I even cook now! I can make rice with peas and chicken breast. It’s basic, but it works. The biggest change is that I feel calmer. Germany is a very relaxed country with laid-back people. You really see the difference — especially on the roads."
How is the basketball training different there?
"The practice facility is huge, and the gym is available whenever I need it. I get there early in the morning and do a lot of individual work with the coach. That’s a big difference — there’s so much emphasis on individual skill development and physical conditioning. Everything is accessible, and my home is just five minutes from the facility."
Where have you improved the most?
"I feel more responsible in my game. I’ve improved in every aspect — physically, skill-wise — it’s a mix of getting older and the excellent training there."
Is there one moment from this season that stands out?
"My first game. I played really well, but I was so nervous. I had butterflies in my stomach — but in a good way. The same thing happened when I played against Hapoel Tel Aviv. I actually play better when I’m excited and the games mean a lot to me."
A taste of the NBA
Last October, Saraf got a glimpse of what could be his future when Ulm played an exhibition game against the Portland Trail Blazers, featuring fellow Israeli Deni Avdija. Both players shined — Avdija scored 18 points, while Saraf finished with 16.
What was it like playing against Portland?
"It was incredible. It felt like I was inside NBA 2K — like I was stepping into a dream. It was also a great bonding experience for our team. Meeting Deni was great too. After the game, we went out to eat together. We didn’t know each other before, and he gave me a few tips."
Do you pay attention to the draft projections?
"I see them sometimes, if something big comes out. But I try not to let it affect me."
Does it add pressure?
"At first, it did. You get excited about everything people write about you. But over time, you realize that not everything is relevant — whether it’s good or bad. You can’t take it too personally."
At 18, are you living the dream?
"Not yet. If I get there, I’ll let you know."
Do you realize you’re on the verge of something huge?
"Yeah, but I try not to think about it too much. I believe that if I don’t focus on it, I’ll play better. I don’t want to overanalyze every play, worrying about how it might impact my future or disappoint people. I don’t need that pressure — it’s better to stay calm and just keep playing."
Are you ready for the next step, or could you see yourself staying another season in Ulm?
"If an NBA team wants me and things are looking good, then yes — I’m ready."
Would you go to any team that picks you?
"If it’s in the first round? Yes. If they draft me, I’m going."
Which player would you most want to play with?
"LeBron. That would be amazing. I don’t care if it’s with him or against him — I just want to meet him. Trash talk? Hmm… actually, I don’t know. I think I’d just respect him too much."
What should we wish you for the near future?
"Health, success — and to be drafted in the top 10. That’s the goal."