Nets Honor Sydney Hanukkah Attack Victims with On-Court Menorah Lighting
During a Nets vs. Heat game at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on December 18, 2025, the Brooklyn Nets honored the victims of the Sydney Hanukkah massacre. A giant basketball menorah was lit on-court by the 14-year-old nephew of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, one of the victims of the attack in Sydney, where 16 people were killed.
The ceremony was organized by the Chabad Teen Network. Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky of the Chabad World Headquarters attended remotely; he had originally planned to be in Australia. He praised the Nets for recognizing Hanukkah, supporting Jewish heritage, and empowering Jewish youth. Kotlarsky emphasized the message of light over darkness and highlighted how sports can empower communities and celebrate Jewish identity.
The Nets feature two Jewish players, Danny Wolf and Ben Saraf, who were cited as role models for Jewish youth. Additionally, plans were mentioned for a last-minute Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, the site of the attack, to support the affected community.
