Gal Mekel, Israeli basketball player

Hailing from Israel, Gal Mekel, born on March 4, 1988, has carved out a notable career as a professional basketball player. Known for his skilled playmaking, Mekel currently represents MoraBanc Andorra, competing in both Spain's competitive Liga ACB and the prestigious EuroCup Basketball.

From College Courts to International Play

Mekel's basketball journey began to take shape during his two-year tenure playing college basketball in the United States, where he honed his skills with Wichita State University. This formative period laid the groundwork for his transition into professional leagues, providing him with valuable experience on the court.

Dominance in Israeli and Italian Leagues

Following his time in the US, Mekel returned to his home country, making a significant impact in the Israeli Super League. He showcased his talents with several prominent clubs, including the legendary Maccabi Tel Aviv, Hapoel Gilboa Galil, and Maccabi Haifa, where he quickly became a standout performer. His exceptional contributions didn't go unnoticed, earning him the coveted Israeli Super League MVP title not once, but twice, in both 2011 and 2013—a testament to his consistent excellence. Beyond scoring, Mekel also demonstrated his prowess as a facilitator, leading the Israeli Premier League in assists in both 2011 and 2016. His career also took him to Italy, where he competed in the challenging Italian Serie A League with Benetton Treviso, further broadening his international experience and proving his adaptability to different styles of play.

Breaking Barriers: The NBA Call-Up

A significant milestone in Mekel's career arrived in 2013 when the ultimate dream for many basketball players materialized. He signed a three-year, minimum, and fully guaranteed contract with the NBA's Dallas Mavericks, making him only the second Israeli player ever to join the elite league. This move not only marked a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Israeli basketball, showcasing the talent emerging from the region. Interestingly, Mekel also holds a Polish passport, which provided him with additional flexibility in his international career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gal Mekel

Who is Gal Mekel?
Gal Mekel is an Israeli professional basketball player, currently playing for MoraBanc Andorra.
When was Gal Mekel born?
He was born on March 4, 1988.
What teams has he played for?
He has played for Wichita State University (college), Maccabi Tel Aviv, Hapoel Gilboa Galil, Maccabi Haifa, Benetton Treviso, the Dallas Mavericks, and currently MoraBanc Andorra, among other professional clubs.
What are his major achievements?
He is a two-time Israeli Super League MVP (2011, 2013) and a two-time Israeli Premier League Assists Leader (2011, 2016). He also made history as the second Israeli to join the NBA.
Does Gal Mekel have dual citizenship?
Yes, in addition to his Israeli citizenship, he also holds a Polish passport.