August 28 2026
American-born, naturalized Croatian basketball star Jaleen Devon Smith is deepening his connection with Ghana, with plans to undertake projects in the country alongside Ghanaian footballer Jafar Samed Issah.
Smith, who plays for Hapoel Jerusalem in the Israeli Premier League and EuroCup, has developed a close friendship with Jafar Samed Issah, a Ghanaian former professional footballer and right winger who previously played for Danish side Nörrsundby FB.
The relationship between the two has reportedly grown beyond friendship, with Smith and Issah exploring potential projects aimed at making a positive impact in Ghana. Their bond was recently highlighted when Smith invited Issah to watch Croatia’s FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifier against Latvia in Zadar, Croatia.
Jaleen Devon Smith &Jafar Samed Issah.Smith went on to deliver a strong performance in front of the home supporters, helping Croatia secure victory and giving his Ghanaian friend an opportunity to witness the basketball star in action.
Smith’s growing admiration for Ghana, coupled with his plans to collaborate with Issah, has sparked excitement among Ghanaian supporters, particularly those eager to see the basketball star visit the country.
The prospect of Smith and Issah working together on projects in Ghana has also generated curiosity about what the pair could bring to communities beyond the sporting arena.
From the basketball courts of Croatia to potential projects in Ghana, Jaleen Smith and Jafar Samed Issah are building a connection that could extend well beyond sport.