Hapoel Tel Aviv Eyes Former NBA Draft Pick James Wiseman

Hapoel Tel Aviv, preparing for the 2026-27 basketball season, is reportedly considering former NBA lottery pick James Wiseman to fill their final roster spot at center. The 25-year-old, standing at 2.11 meters, was the second overall selection in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors.

Wiseman has struggled to meet expectations since entering the league, hampered by injuries throughout his career. He has played only 152 NBA games across six seasons with the Golden State Warriors, Detroit Pistons, and Indiana Pacers, averaging 9 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. A torn Achilles tendon early in the 2024-25 season further limited his playing time.

He was released by the Pacers in December 2024 after making only three appearances that season, and a total of five appearances over the last two seasons. Wiseman also made two appearances for the US national team a few months ago.

Hapoel Tel Aviv is seeking a third center to complement their EuroLeague rotation, joining Dan Oortho and Tai Odiase. The club had also explored the option of Marcio Santos, who previously played for Maccabi Tel Aviv before leaving last summer, though his signing has not been officially announced.

Wiseman's agent, Misko Raznatovic, announced two months ago that the player would continue his career in Europe for the first time, making him a potential candidate to complete Hapoel Tel Aviv's roster.