League Lookout: Liga Leumit Israel 22/23
Image: facebook.com/maccabihaifabc.il
The Top Young Imports in Israel's 2nd Division
Traditionally, National League Israel teams tend to opt for experience over youth when it comes to selecting their import players. Nevertheless, there are a few interesting prospects to be found in the country's second tier. We have selected the top five imports 28 and younger. The following list also allows us to introduce our brand-new ranking system. For further explanations, please check our Glossary section.
+++ UPDATE +++
1. Jawun Evans - PG - Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion - Score: 72/100
After his mid-season move from LKL Lithuania, the former LA Clippers playmaker immediately jumps to the top of the Liga Leumit rankings. He is clearly equipped to dominate that level and potentially lead his new team to the country's top division.
2. Admon Gilder - SG - Maccabi Haifa - Score: 66/100
Although Haifa are struggling as a team, Gilder remains the most higher-league ready import in Liga Leumit. He could immediately assume a rotational backcourt allrounder role on a better level, both on offense and defensively.
3. Eddie Ekiyor - C - Maccabi Ma'ale Adumim - Score: 64/100
Probably the player with the highest overall upside in National League, the Canadian big's career has been troubled by off-court issues. If he can get/keep his act together and further polish his game, Ekiyor could move up the ranks in upcoming seasons.
4. Dakarai Tucker - SF - Elitzur Ironi Ashkelon - Score: 63/100
Potentially the best player on the league leaders, Tucker is another player who could instantly contribute in a more minor role on a superior level. He brings a classic 3-and-D profile to the table and prioritizes wise shot selection over gaudy numbers.
5. Tyler Wideman - C/PF - Ramat Hasharon - Score: 63/100
A bit stuck between positions 4 and 5, Wideman offers a nice blend of athleticism, strength and a hint of stretch capabilities. Similar to Gilder, it took him a while to complete his college career, so he is a bit older than his resume would suggest.
6. Romello White - C - Ironi Nahariya - Score: 62/100
Probably one of Leumit's highest paid imports, the former Arizona and Ole Miss big has not been as dominant as long-time Winner League outfit Nahariya might have hoped. Still a young man, White needs to turn around a career that seems to be trending in the wrong direction.
Other names that came up in the discussion were Netanya's highflying import duo of rim protecting big Justin Robinson (yes, David's offspring) and defensive-minded combo forward Al-Wajid Aminu (yes, Al-Farouq's younger brother) or Shomron's PF/C Keith Stone.
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