Hoops for Heroes

Hoops for Heroes is an effort from Commonpoint staff across various departments with strong connections to Israel and the Jewish community to highlight the importance of honoring the heroes of October 7th and the incredible need to bring all of the hostages home.

The Hoops for Heroes Basketball Tournament will raise funds in the name of the 2025 honoree and New York native, Omer Neutra. Registration fees and donations will go towards future Hoops for Heroes events and two scholarship funds honoring Omer’s love for Israel and basketball.

Every summer, Commonpoint takes a group of teens to Israel for a 3-week immersive trip focusing on the history, culture, and diversity of Israel. The Israel Teen Scholarship will help teens engage in a meaningful experience and contribute to their personal growth.

The Youth Basketball Scholarship will help aspiring athletes gain access to programs they may not otherwise and provide participation in Commonpoint basketball programs.

To donate to the scholarship fund, click here.

Omer Neutra, who grew up in Plainview, Long Island, was a dynamic part of his community from a young age. As a child, he was actively involved in sports, particularly basketball, which he played and led as a team captain due to his natural leadership qualities. Omer’s passion for sports was matched by his dedication to community cohesion and his ability to inspire those around him. After a gap year in Israel, he joined the IDF, serving as an officer in the armored corps. On October 7th, 2023, Omer was stationed with his soldiers on the Israel-Gaza border. When the attack occurred, Omer stormed out with his tanks towards the terrorists in a true act of heroism. Tragically, Omer fell in battle and his body was kidnapped to Gaza by Hamas. Our community continues to seek his return.