Overview
The 6-foot-5 guard started playing professionally at 16 years old, starting with Elitzur Netanya of the second-division Israeli Basketball National League before going to the Israeli Premier League in the summer of 2023. Saraf posted 10.7 points, 3.7 assists, 3.2 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game last year and was named the Israeli League Premier Rising Star. In the summer of 2024, he signed with Ratiopharm Ulm of the Basketball Bundesliga. That year he also led the 2024 FIBA U18 EuroBasket tournament in scoring and was named the MVP. In his most recent full season with Ratiopharm Ulm, Saraf averaged 12.3 ppg, 4.3 apg, 2.6 rpg and 1.1 spg with 46/29/73 shooting splits.
Analysis
Passing is his best skill and the lefty Saraf is an excellent playmaker. He has above-average height, can make almost every type of pass and makes reads with ease. Saraf drives often, focusing on downhill moves and change of direction rather than shifting left to right on the perimeter. He pulls up with confidence from the mid-range and has a solid form that could lead to improved 3-point shooting as he develops.
Quotable
“Ben has impressive skills both as an executor and as a playmaker. Despite his young age, he has already proven that he can use these skills to his advantage at a professional level. His wit at both ends makes him a special talent.” — Ratiopharm Ulm sports director Thorsten Leibenath
Some stats & tidbits
Named Israeli Premier League’s top young prospect in 2023-24 … Scored 16 points for Ratiopharm Ulm in an exhibition game against the Trail Blazers on Oct. 16, 2024, in Portland … Both parents played professional basketball … Favorite NBA player is Luka Dončić; wears No. 77
Projection
Considering Saraf’s passing talent, he should be able to function as a floor general wherever he lands. His size could allow him to play multiple positions, which could be opened up further if he develops a more consistent 3-pointer. That versatility is valuable and provides a potential pathway to minutes on a variety of teams and he could draw comparisons to Elfrid Payton or Manu Ginobili.
— Profile by RotoWire.com