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Time of India

How Zeev Buium became the NHL's first player with Israeli heritage and a proud Jewish background

When you think of hockey rising stars, Minnesota Wild defenseman Zeev Buium is quickly becoming a name to remember. At just 19, he's already making waves by going straight from college hockey to the Stanley Cup playoffs, a rare feat in NHL history. But what truly sets Zeev apart isn't just his skills on the ice, it's the powerful story behind him: being the first NHL player born to Israeli parents and proudly carrying his Jewish heritage into the spotlight. Zeev Buium's hockey journey fueled by passion and perseverance Zeev's journey started at the University of Denver, where he made a name for himself as a top player. Winning a National Championship in 2024 and being named the National Collegiate Hockey Conference player of the year in 2025, he earned spots on prestigious award lists and helped Team USA win gold at the World Championship. — DU_Hockey (@DU_Hockey) Then, in April 2025, he made history by stepping onto NHL ice for the Stanley Cup playoffs without skipping a beat. For most players, that's a dream come true and Zeev is living it. Behind all that success is a story of family, values, and sacrifice. Zeev's parents, Sorin and Miriam, immigrated from Ashdod, Israel, to San Diego in 1999. They raised Zeev and his two brothers with a strong work ethic and a tight-knit family spirit. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Eat 1 Teaspoon Every Night, See What Happens A Week Later [Video] getfittoday Undo Growing up, the family drove hundreds of miles multiple times a week so the boys could train in a youth hockey program run by the Los Angeles Kings. It wasn't always easy, but Sorin and Miriam's commitment never wavered. 'They taught us what it means to work hard and be dedicated, but also to stay grounded and kind,' Zeev shared. Their Israeli and Jewish heritage was more than just a background, it was a guiding force shaping the young athlete's mindset and approach to life. Proudly embracing Jewish identity on and off the ice In a sport where cultural diversity is still growing, Zeev's pride in his Jewish roots is refreshing and inspiring . 'I'm a proud Jew,' he says simply but powerfully. For him, being Jewish is more than a label, it's an essential part of who he is, influencing how he approaches challenges and success alike. His parents, though new to hockey when they first came to the U.S., have fully embraced the sport, supporting their sons through every practice, game, and milestone. Zeev's older brother, Shai, was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings, proving the whole family's hockey passion runs deep. Also read - Sources confirm Bam Adebayo to bang the drum and DJ Khaled to appear at tonight's Stanley Cup Final Game 3