Sporting heroes: No. 52, Nadav Henefeld

The greatest defensive player Israeli basketball has ever seen.

nadav henfeld 88 (photo credit: )
nadav henfeld 88
(photo credit: )
The greatest defensive player Israeli basketball has ever seen held together Maccabi Tel Aviv throughout the 1990's. Despite being nothing more than a mediocre scorer at best, Henefeld turned defending into a work of art while at Maccabi and led the team to 11 Israeli championships and one European Suproleague title. He began his career at Hapoel Galil Elyon before leaving to play for the Connecticut Huskies in the 1989-90 season. The forward was nothing short of sensational during his one season in the NCAA, averaging 11.6 points and 9.6 rebounds per game, and was tipped by many to become the first Israeli to be selected in the NBA draft had he stayed in college longer. Henefeld, however, was lured by a big money offer from Maccabi and remained with the yellow-and-blue until retirement. Henefeld also played a vital role in the Israel national team, making 157 appearances for the side and taking part in five European Championships. Tomorrow: A coaching great who is still adding to his impressive resume