Hapoel Tel Aviv to Release Center Jonathan Motley, Veteran Guard Tomas Satoransky Considered

Jonathan Motley is expected to leave Hapoel Tel Aviv despite signing a two-year contract extension in March. The center's performance declined in the latter part of 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 is actively offering him to several EuroLeague clubs, and 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, making it unlikely he will regain a rotation spot.

Following the departure of guard Chris Jones, Hapoel Tel Aviv is seeking to strengthen its backcourt. Yam Madar is expected to step up as Jones's replacement in the hierarchy, but the team aims to add another guard to support the rotation. Veteran guard Tomas Satoransky, 34, 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.