Hapoel Tel Aviv Owner: Tamir Blatt Must Decide on His Future

Ofer Yanai, owner of the Hapoel Tel Aviv basketball team, stated that player Tamir Blatt must decide whether to remain with the club. Yanai met with EuroLeague officials in Israel to discuss the league's return to the country. He outlined the team's season goals, including winning the Israeli championship and reaching the EuroLeague Final Four, not just the top 6. Yanai emphasized the importance of building a strong Israeli core, noting that "war clauses" in contracts have been canceled to ensure player commitment. He expressed hope that Blatt would make a decision soon regarding his future with the team.

Yanai also confirmed that the team has signed players like Jacob Toppin and Kadin Carrington to strengthen the roster. He indicated that the team's standing in the EuroLeague would be solidified by the start of next year, based on winning the competition. Stav Shaham, an official with Hapoel Tel Aviv, affirmed that Blatt is currently under contract and considered a team player. Shaham added that while the team needs Blatt, they would not prevent a player from being loaned out if they wished to leave, but as of now, Blatt remains with the club.