Deni Avdija is having a career-best season with the Trail Blazers, but says online political backlash tied to his Israeli nationality frustrates him, as he wants to be judged solely on his basketball.
Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija is enjoying the most productive season of his NBA career, but the toughest part of his journey this year has little to do with basketball.
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Living far from Israel, Avdija has spoken openly about feeling homesick and frustrated by the hostility he often sees directed at his nationality online.
While his performances on the court continue to improve, he says many fans choose to focus on politics rather than basketball — something that genuinely bothers him.
"I'm an athlete. I don't really get into politics, because it's not my job," Avdija told Jason Quick of The Athletic. "I obviously stand for my country, because that's where I'm from. It's frustrating to see all the hate. Like, I have a good game or get All-Star votes, and all the comments are people connecting me to politics.
"Like, why can't I just be a good basketball player?" the 25-year-old questioned. "Why does it matter if I'm from Israel, or wherever in the world, or what my race is? Just respect me as a basketball player.
"You don't have to love what I stand for or how I look, but if I'm a good player, give props. All this hate … for no reason. Like, I'm deciding things in the world."
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Avdija acknowledged that being a professional athlete gives him a larger platform, but he doesn't believe that means he must publicly comment on complex geopolitical issues.
"I'll be honest: What do people expect me to do?" Avdija asked. "This is my country, where I was born, where I grew up. I love my country; there are a lot of great things about my country. But obviously, not everyone is educated and knows what is going on, and that's what pisses me off.
Deni Avdija
Deni Avdija
Deni Avdija
MIN: 35.27
PTS: 26.17 (59.22%)
REB: 7.12
AS: 6.93
ST: 0.85
BL: 0.61
TO: 3.88
GM: 41
"Because if you are educated and know what is going on, it's fine to say what you think and say who you think is right or wrong. But if you are not educated and you are not part of the Middle East, and you don't understand how long this goes back and understand the consequences and everything … just don't say anything.
"I'm from there, and I respect my country, and I stand behind it. I'm a proud Israeli, because that's where I grew up. I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for Israel and the support the people and fans gave me. But all the extra stuff around it? It's just unnecessary."
On the court, Avdija has been outstanding. Through 41 games this season, he is posting career highs across the board, averaging 26.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game.
His breakout year has drawn praise from around the league, including LeBron James, who recently called Avdija "a big-time player" and said he deserves a spot for the 2026 All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Avdija is in his second season with the Trail Blazers after being acquired in a trade from the Washington Wizards.
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