Deni Avdija
Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija is in the middle of the most productive season of his NBA career, yet the part weighing on him the most has nothing to do with shot selection or defensive assignments. Instead, Avdija says the online backlash tied to his Israeli nationality has reached a point where it overshadows his work on the court.
In an interview with Jason Quick of The Athletic, Avdija spoke candidly about the frustration of being pulled into political conversations he says he never asked to join. While living far from home, the forward admitted the constant commentary surrounding his background has taken an emotional toll.
“You don’t have to love what I stand for or how I look, but if I’m a good player, give props,” Avdija said. “All this hate, for no reason. Like, I’m deciding things in the world.”
Avdija Speaks on Identity and Education
Avdija emphasized that his nationality should not define how fans evaluate him as a basketball player. He explained that criticism often comes from people he feels lack understanding of the region and its history, which only deepens his frustration.
“I love my country, there are a lot of great things about my country,” Avdija said. “But obviously, not everyone is educated and knows what is going on, and that’s what pisses me off.”
He added that informed discussion is one thing, but uninformed commentary is another. “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,” he said.
Avdija made it clear he does not view himself as a political figure. “I’m an athlete. I don’t really get into politics, because it’s not my job,” he told Quick. “I obviously stand for my country, because that’s where I’m from. It’s frustrating to see all the hate.”
The timing of Avdija’s comments comes amid renewed attention on Israel in global politics, including recent developments involving U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, per BBC. Avdija did not comment on those matters directly, instead reiterating that he wants his career judged through a basketball lens.
NBACentral
Deni Avdija says he’s fed up with the hate he receives for being from Israel, calls out the lack of education on the topic, and demands respect, saying those outside the Middle East shouldn’t speak on it
“You don’t have to love what I stand for or how I look, but if I’m a good
Career Year With Portland
While the noise off the court continues, Avdija’s play has spoken loudly. 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 expanded role with the Portland Trail Blazers has showcased his versatility as both a scorer and playmaker.
That breakout has not gone unnoticed. LeBron James recently praised Avdija, calling him “a big-time player” and saying he deserves consideration for the 2026 All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Despite the recognition, Avdija said online reactions often shift away from basketball the moment he has a big performance or receives accolades. “I have a good game or get All-Star votes, and all the comments are people connecting me to politics,” he said. “Why can’t I just be a good basketball player?”
Now in his second season with Portland after arriving via trade from Washington, Avdija continues to focus on growth and consistency. His message, however, extends beyond the box score. He is asking for respect, not as a spokesperson or symbol, but simply as a player doing his job at a high level.