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 contract 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 forward and power forward positions, his ability to drive to the basket, secure offensive rebounds, and energize the defense.

During his time with Fenerbahçe, Colson's role and playing style shifted significantly. While in his last Maccabi season 37.7% of his shots were from beyond the three-point line, last season at Fenerbahçe that number rose to 52%, reflecting a transition to a perimeter shooter rather than the inside scorer he was in Israel. Despite Fenerbahçe winning the EuroLeague title, Colson was often a secondary player behind stars like Nigel Hayes-Davis and Marco Guduric, and his minutes and offensive involvement decreased.

Colson's move back to Maccabi comes after the Turkish club expressed interest in retaining him, but he opted for a more central role in a team where he can contribute significantly. Maccabi currently has two prominent forwards, Oushey Brist and Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Colson's ability to play both forward positions and his improved shooting make him a valuable asset. His skill set includes drawing mismatches by attacking smaller defenders and stretching defenses with his three-point shooting, which was highly efficient last season at 48.5% from beyond the arc.

Colson's defensive intensity remains a key strength, allowing him to guard multiple positions and provide valuable rebounding, especially offensive boards, which fits well with Maccabi's playing style. His signing is also a statement of ambition from Maccabi's new ownership, led by Eric Stillman, who has expressed high hopes for the club's future, including winning the EuroLeague within five years. Colson's return is seen as a strong foundation for the team's summer preparations and future aspirations.

Summary: Bonzi Colson returns to Maccabi Tel Aviv on a two-year deal after two years with Fenerbahçe, bringing versatility, improved shooting, and defensive intensity to the team. His signing reflects Maccabi's ambitions to strengthen its roster and compete at the highest European level.

Points: - Bonzi Colson signs a two-year contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv, earning about $1.5 million per season. - Colson's role shifted at Fenerbahçe to a perimeter shooter, with 52% of shots from three-point range last season. - At Maccabi, he was known for versatility, defense, and attacking mismatches inside the paint. - Colson's return adds depth alongside forwards Oushey Brist and Jalen Hood-Schifino. - His defensive skills and offensive rebounding fit Maccabi's playing style. - The signing signals Maccabi's high ambitions under new owner Eric Stillman.

Topic: sports

Entities: {"people":["Bonzi Colson","Oded Katash","Nigel Hayes-Davis","Marco Guduric","Eric Stillman","Oushey Brist","Jalen Hood-Schifino"],"organizations":["Maccabi Tel Aviv","Fenerbahçe","EuroLeague"],"places":["Israel","Turkey"]}