Maccabi Tel Aviv Signs Forward Bonzi Colson for 2026 Season Return

Bonzi Colson, the 30-year-old forward, is returning to Maccabi Tel Aviv after two years away, signing a two-year deal worth approximately $1.5 million per season. Colson, a fan favorite during his previous two seasons with Maccabi under coach Oded Katash, was known for his versatility playing both small and power forward positions, his ability to drive to the basket, secure offensive rebounds, and energize the defense.

During his time at Fenerbahce, Colson's role and playing style changed significantly. While he previously took fewer three-point shots, in his last season with Maccabi 37.7% of his shots were from beyond the arc, but at Fenerbahce that number rose to 52%, with most of his attempts coming from three-point range. Despite Fenerbahce winning the EuroLeague championship, Colson was often a secondary player behind stars like Nigel Hayes-Davis and Marko Guduric, primarily serving as a defensive stopper rather than a scorer.

Colson’s minutes and influence diminished over time at Fenerbahce, where he was no longer a primary option but rather a role player in a deep roster. His usage rate and playing time decreased compared to his tenure at Maccabi. Although Fenerbahce wanted to retain him, Colson opted to return to Maccabi, a club where he can play a more central role alongside forwards Oushey Brist and Jalen Hurd.

Colson’s ability to play both forward positions, attack with his back to the basket, and draw taller defenders inside will be valuable in the Israeli league, which lacks height depth. His improved three-point shooting, especially from the corners where he shot 48.5% last season, adds a significant offensive weapon to Maccabi’s system. Defensively, he remains a versatile and intense player capable of guarding multiple positions.

The signing is also a statement by Maccabi’s new owner, Eric Stillman, who has expressed ambitions of winning the EuroLeague within five years. While the team is not there yet, bringing back a EuroLeague-caliber player like Colson is seen as a strong start to the summer and a boost for the club’s aspirations.