Yam Madar Signs Three-Year Deal with Maccabi Tel Aviv in Major Transfer

Yam Madar has agreed to a three-year contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv, expected to earn $2 million per season, with an option for two additional years. The deal was finalized after a dramatic late-night meeting involving Madar, Maccabi coach Oded Katash, and team manager Ami Biton. Madar returned to Israel on Saturday following a national team match against Germany and immediately met with the club's leadership. Maccabi emphasized Madar's professional importance to the team, and Madar expressed his desire to play under Katash.

Madar activated his $300,000 release clause from Hapoel Tel Aviv, rejecting improved offers from the club, including an unprecedented five-year contract worth $12.5 million. Despite Hapoel's efforts to retain him at any cost, Madar chose the professional challenge presented by Maccabi Tel Aviv. In recent days, Maccabi intensified negotiations through Madar's agent, Mishko Razentovich. Initially, Madar rejected a $6 million three-year offer, demanding a higher salary, but ultimately prioritized playing a key role in the EuroLeague under Katash over the higher financial offer from his city rivals.