Lieberman and Brody. 'Zionist Symbol'
Photo courtesy of Foreign Ministry
Brody with European Cup in 1977
Photo: Yossi Rot
Tal Brody, one of the greatest Israeli basketball players of all times and an Israel Prize laureate, was appointed last week as a goodwill ambassador for the State of Israel.
"My goal at this stage of my life is to devote all of my time to serve and contribute my abilities and skills to the State of Israel," Brody said during the ceremony. "I believe I will be able to make many people in the world gain a better understanding and see the many positive sides of the State."
Brody, who received the letter of appointment from Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, will help with PR activities across the world.
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Lieberman said that "Brody's extensive and diverse activity, which includes – in addition to him being an outstanding sportsman – years of volunteering and giving, has turned him into a Zionist symbol and role model.
"His special biography makes him Israel's ideal hasbara figure in the world in general, and in the United States in particular. I am certain that Brody will contribute greatly to Israel's positive image in the world."
Brody, 66, was one of Israel's first basketball stars. He immigrated to Israel from the United States at the age of 23 after a magnificent college career and after leading the USA team to a gold medal at the Maccabiah Games.
He put Maccabi Tel Aviv on the map after beating CSKA Moscow in 1977, and later that year lifted the European Cup as the tame captain.
In 1979, he received the Israel Prize for his "special contribution to the society and State in the culture of the body." Three years ago, Brody joined the Likud party, but was not elected to the Knesset.
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