Miki Berkovich’s Dementia Diagnosis Draws Nationwide Support

Former Maccabi Tel Aviv star Miki Berkovich, widely regarded as Israel’s greatest basketball player, has been publicly confirmed to be battling dementia. The condition was first disclosed in the Channel 12 documentary *Miki’s Secret* and has been described as worsening over the past two years, with early signs appearing roughly six years ago. Berkovich, now 72, lives outside his home under 24-hour care, while his family and close friends remain actively involved.

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Born in Kfar Saba in 1954 to Romanian-immigrant parents, Berkovich joined Maccabi Tel Aviv’s youth program at age 11 and debuted on the senior squad at 17. He led the club to two FIBA European Champions Cup titles (1977, 1981) and amassed 16 Israeli League championships and 13 State Cups across 16 seasons. Internationally, he guided Israel to a silver medal at EuroBasket 1979 and was named tournament MVP. After retiring, he founded an insurance agency and managed several Israeli clubs. His son Roy and grandson Niv have continued the family’s basketball legacy.

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Chairman Shimon Mizrahi of Maccabi Tel Aviv highlighted Berkovich’s enduring influence, noting personal memories of games played together.

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• “He is a true winner who also knew how to bring the whole team with him,” — Shimon Mizrahi, Maccabi Tel Aviv chairman

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• “My beloved Miki, my childhood hero. The pain I feel is deep,” — Doron Jamchi

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• “We protected his privacy over the past few years, but we remained very close.” — Doron Jamchi

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• “It is so sad. I cannot stop thinking about him.” — Doron Jamchi

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Since the documentary’s release, social media has been filled with messages of support, and Berkovich’s recent receipt of the Israel Prize has amplified public attention to his health battle. Former teammates and basketball figures, including Tal Brody and Motti Aroesti, have been noted visiting him regularly. The collective response underscores Berkovich’s lasting status as a national sports icon and the nation’s empathy toward his personal struggle.

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