New Maccabi Tel Aviv Guard Keith Stone Wallace Explains Jersey Number Choice

New Maccabi Tel Aviv basketball player Keith Stone Wallace has revealed that his choice of jersey number 17 symbolizes new beginnings, a fitting choice for his transition to the Israeli club after considering his NBA future. Wallace, 27, spent last season with the Atlanta Hawks, helping them reach the NBA playoffs. This past summer, he faced a crossroads regarding his career, weighing opportunities in the NBA against a move to Europe.

Maccabi Tel Aviv's professional manager, Claudio Coldebella, played a key role in Wallace's decision. "He really made a great impression on me and my family," Wallace told Euroleague.net. "We were all together during the call and felt comfortable. It felt like the right decision to make... Maccabi Tel Aviv was the best option."

Wallace is known for his versatility but has been focused on adapting to Maccabi's new system and coaching philosophy under Oded Katash. "He explained the offense to me and how it works," Wallace said. "He has a very smart philosophy and is teaching me a different way to play." Despite the demanding learning process, Wallace is embracing it, stating, "It's an adjustment, but I'm enjoying the process and learning the concepts, drills, and things like that. He has helped me a lot."

Having played only one preseason game, Wallace described himself as still absorbing information. "I've learned a lot. The pace, the concepts, the drills, and getting to know my teammates," he stated, acknowledging he has much more to learn in his first few weeks with the team. He expressed respect for the EuroLeague's competitiveness and his eagerness to experience it firsthand.

Wallace believes his versatile skillset, which includes playing multiple guard positions, shooting, passing, and defending, will translate well to the European league. He has received significant support from his new teammates, including Bonzie Colson, John DiBartolomeo, Amit Avrahami, and Nitai Dudu, who have aided his adjustment to the team and its concepts. The number 17 serves as a constant reminder of the new chapter he is embarking on with one of Europe's most decorated clubs.