Hapoel Tel Aviv Plans to Release Jonathan Motley, Targets Tomas Satoransky as New Guard

Jonathan Motley is expected to leave Hapoel Tel Aviv despite signing a two-year contract extension in March. The center's performance declined late in the season, leading to limited playing time in the EuroLeague playoffs and absence from the final Israeli Premier League game. The club believes it is best for all parties if Motley joins another EuroLeague team next season. His agent has begun offering him to several EuroLeague clubs, while Motley himself is exploring options. Although team director Ofer Yanai values Motley and was responsible for his contract renewal, the coaching staff is disappointed with his recent form and doubts he will regain a rotation spot.

Following the departure of guard Chris Jones, Hapoel is seeking an additional guard to strengthen the roster. Yam Madar is expected to step up as Jones's primary replacement, but the team aims to add another guard for depth. Tomas Satoransky, a 34-year-old veteran guard, is a leading candidate. Satoransky returned to Europe in 2022 after six NBA seasons with Washington, Chicago, New Orleans, and San Antonio. Last season, he averaged 7 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.4 rebounds in 25 minutes per game in the EuroLeague. He won the Spanish league championship with Barcelona in 2023 and has been named Czech Player of the Year eight times.