Kippah-wearing hoops star reflects on first season in Israel

US-born ultra-Orthodox basketball player Ryan Turell says he’s proud to represent Jewish values on and off the court

By David Brummer, World Israel News

Ryan Turell has wrapped up his debut season in Israel—and says he’s never felt prouder to represent his faith and heritage on the court.

The 26-year-old Los Angeles native, who made headlines as the first kippah-wearing player in the NBA G League, spent the past year playing in Israel’s professional league.

He started the season with Ironi Ness Ziona and later joined Ironi Nahariya in the second division, helping the team reach the playoffs.

He also took home the three-point title at the Israeli All-Star Game.

As noted by Jew in the City, although Turrell “is stirring up a lot of excitement for his draft to the G League, NBA’s minor league organization, playing his first game last night, it turns out another Orthodox Jew had already been drafted to the NBA 42 years earlier. In 1980, David Kufeld was the first Orthodox Jew to be drafted to the NBA — for the appropriately titled Portland Trail Blazers.”

Turell and Kufeld were both leaders on Yeshiva University’s basketball team, the site added.

Speaking to Ynet, Turell described the season as a long-held dream come true.

“I’ve always wanted to play basketball in Israel,” he said. “I’ve loved visiting since I was a kid, and this is where the Jewish people belong.”

Turell arrived in Israel during a turbulent time, amid war and security threats.

He admitted the adjustment wasn’t easy. “At first it was a little scary,” he said. “But if Jews aren’t safe in Israel, they’re not safe anywhere. You learn to live with the reality.”

He said the experience deepened his connection to Israel and the Jewish people, adding that he was moved by the sense of community.

“Once, I got a flat tire, and someone immediately pulled over to help. That kind of thing just doesn’t happen in the U.S. as often,” he told Ynet.

Turell also contrasted his current life with his time in the U.S., where playing professionally while observing Jewish law came with challenges.

“In Detroit, I had to walk to the arena on Shabbat and make all kinds of adjustments,” he recalled. “In Israel, it’s much easier.”

One memorable moment came when a Friday game ended just hours before Shabbat.

“I stayed with a nearby yeshiva, and we had a beautiful Shabbat together. Just a bunch of guys who love Torah and basketball.”

Back in Los Angeles for the summer, Turell said he wears his kippah proudly—something he struggled with when he was younger.

“Growing up, I sometimes hid it. But I’ve realized it’s more important than ever to stand tall and be proud of who we are.”

Since the October 7 Hamas attacks, Turell said antisemitism has surged in the U.S., and Jews are more alert.

“There’s more tension. People are cautious and watching their backs. But we can’t let hate win.”

He said his response is activism—both online and in person.

“I wear my kippah everywhere, even during games. If someone has a problem with that, it’s their issue.”

In Israel, fans welcomed him warmly. “Kids would come up, take pictures, and tell me I inspire them. That means everything to me.”

Turell hopes to return for another season in Israel and says he’s working hard to come back stronger.

“I don’t know which team I’ll be on yet, but I’ll be back. I had good moments and some injuries, but I’ve learned a lot.”

His ultimate goal? “Playing for the Israeli national team. That would be incredible. If they call, I’m ready.”

BasketballIsraeli basketballRyan TurellUltra-Orthodox