Amari Bailey Signs with Hapoel Beer Sheva/Dimona Basketball Club

American-Jewish guard Amari Bailey, previously linked with Hapoel Jerusalem, has officially signed with Hapoel Beer Sheva/Dimona. The 22-year-old, standing at 1.95 meters, was in advanced negotiations with Hapoel Jerusalem following an injury to their player Jared Harper. However, Hapoel Beer Sheva simultaneously conducted discussions with Bailey's representatives, leading to the finalized deal.

Bailey, who has Jewish heritage, may be eligible to be classified as an Israeli player in the Israeli Basketball Premier League after his documentation is reviewed. For now, he will play as a foreign player. He was selected 41st overall in the 2023 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets after playing one season at UCLA.

Bailey struggled to establish himself in the NBA, appearing in only 10 games during the 2023-2024 season with the Hornets, averaging 2.3 points, 0.9 rebounds, and 0.7 assists in 6.2 minutes per game. He had more success 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 with the Nets' G League team before moving to the Minnesota Timberwolves' G League squad, where he recorded 10.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.2 rebounds.