Hapoel Jerusalem in Advanced Talks to Sign Guard Amari Bailey

Hapoel Jerusalem is reportedly in advanced negotiations to sign American guard Amari Bailey, 22, to bolster their backcourt following an injury to current guard Jarell Harper. If a deal is finalized, Bailey would likely sign a contract for several months, intended to cover the period until Harper is medically cleared to return to play. The team is actively exploring other options in the market simultaneously.

Bailey, who possesses Jewish heritage, could potentially be classified as an Israeli player in the Israeli Basketball Premier League pending review of his documentation. He was selected 41st overall in the 2023 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets after playing one season of college basketball at UCLA. Bailey struggled to find consistent playing time in the NBA, appearing in only 10 games during the 2023-2024 season, averaging 2.3 points and 0.9 rebounds in limited minutes.

During the same season, he demonstrated stronger performance in the NBA G League with the Hornets' affiliate, averaging 19.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. He began the 2024-2025 season in the G League with the Greensboro Swarm and later played for the Minnesota Timberwolves' G League team, where he averaged 10.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.2 rebounds. Bailey did not play for any team in the most recent season, focusing on individual training. He previously expressed a desire to return to college basketball to improve his game and change perceptions.