Noam Yaakov Sidelined From Israeli National Team Over Insurance Issue Ahead of Germany Match

The Israeli Basketball Association announced on July 3, 2026, that guard Noam Yaakov will not participate in the upcoming national team games against Germany and Croatia in the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers due to an unusual insurance coverage problem. According to the association, FIBA informed them that Yaakov's insurance does not cover temporary disability, unlike other players under FIBA and NBA contracts who have this coverage layer. Extending the insurance coverage for the current game window would cost 35,000 euros.

The association stated that all insurance documents for the national team players, which include permanent disability, accidental death, and temporary disability coverage, were submitted to FIBA in advance as required. However, the response regarding Yaakov's insurance came at the last minute and was unexpected. Following this revelation, the national team manager spoke with Yaakov to clarify the situation, and it was decided that he would not take part in the two upcoming qualifier matches against Germany and Croatia.

This insurance complication is rare and has led to Yaakov's absence from the national team during this critical qualifying phase for the 2027 FIBA World Cup.