Israeli Star Scores 41, Makes NBA Playoff History

Israeli basketball star Deni Avdija just made history with one of the most thrilling performances of the NBA season. The Portland Trail Blazers forward exploded for 41 points and 12 assists Tuesday night, lifting his team into the playoffs for the first time in franchise history with an Israeli player.

With 16.1 seconds left and Portland down by one, Avdija attacked the rim fearlessly. He absorbed contact, finished the layup, and calmly sank the free throw to give the Blazers a 112-110 lead they wouldn't surrender.

The comeback itself was stunning. Phoenix built an 11-point cushion in the fourth quarter, threatening to end Portland's season.

But Avdija refused to let it happen. He orchestrated the offense, scored at crucial moments, and made a finger roll with 37 seconds remaining to keep Portland ahead during a white-knuckle final stretch where the lead changed hands multiple times.

Jerami Grant, returning from a seven-game injury absence, hit a clutch corner three-pointer to give Portland a one-point edge with under two minutes left. The Blazers' defense sealed the win when Matisse Thybulle stripped Phoenix's Jordan Goodwin after a missed three-pointer in the final seconds.

Portland started strong, building a 14-point lead in the second quarter before Phoenix clawed back. Jalen Green's four-point play at the halftime buzzer cut the deficit to three and kept the Suns alive.

Why This Inspires

Avdija's performance represents more than just numbers on a stat sheet. The 25-year-old has quietly built his game since entering the league, developing into a two-way force who can take over when it matters most.

His 41-point explosion tied for the highest-scoring play-in tournament performance since the format began. Adding 12 assists showed his complete command of the game, creating opportunities for teammates even while carrying the offensive load.

Portland will face the San Antonio Spurs in the first round as the No. 7 seed. For Avdija, the historic playoff berth marks a milestone not just for himself, but for Israeli basketball on the global stage.

Basketball fans in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem will now watch playoff games featuring one of their own competing at the highest level.