History was made in Jerusalem last week, as the Hapoel Jerusalem basketball team won the state championship for the first time in its 75-year history, defeating Hapoel Eilat.

On Sunday, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat met with the members of the team and congratulated them on their achievement.

“Jerusalem is well-positioned to lead Israel in the league. By getting the best infrastructure, the best players, and having great teamwork, we’re looking ahead with lots of expectations for the club,” Barkat said.

The mayor made special mention of a fan of Hapoel Jerusalem who did not live to see its first championship: First Sergeant Liel Gidoni of blessed memory was killed last year in Gaza during Operation Protective Edge.

“We are very proud that the club knows, even at its happiest times, to remember the people who - through their commitment and their willingness to fight for us - because of them we can succeed and live our lives and get such amazing results for the team and for the city of Jerusalem,” said Barkat.