Amir Coffey Joins Hapoel Tel Aviv as Key NBA Veteran Signing for EuroLeague Campaign

Amir Coffey, a 29-year-old NBA player, signed with Hapoel Tel Aviv in July 2026, marking his first season in European basketball. Standing 2.01 meters tall, Coffey previously played a significant role with the LA Clippers alongside stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. His NBA journey included 369 games, beginning at the University of Minnesota, going undrafted, and initially joining the Clippers on a Two-Way contract. Over time, injuries to teammates and his own development elevated him to a reliable rotation player trusted by coach Tyronn Lue.

Coffey's best NBA season was in 2021/22 when he averaged nine points in nearly 23 minutes per game, often starting and contributing significantly despite the Clippers missing Leonard due to injury. Although his playing time decreased in the following season, Coffey maintained professionalism and resilience. He improved his three-point shooting to 40.9% in his last Clippers season and later had brief stints with Milwaukee Bucks and Phoenix Suns, where he struggled to secure a consistent role.

Hapoel Tel Aviv expects Coffey to fill the role previously held by Colin Malcolm, focusing on defense, versatility across positions 1-4, and reliable three-point shooting. Coffey's shooting percentages over the past three seasons stand at 39.2% from beyond the arc, slightly below Malcolm's 41.6%, but with a higher volume of attempts, addressing Hapoel's shooting issues from the previous season. His physicality and length also provide defensive upgrades, potentially allowing him to play as a small-ball center in EuroLeague lineups.

Coffey's signing reflects Hapoel Tel Aviv's summer strategy of upgrading existing team components rather than acquiring flashy names, aiming to build on their recent EuroLeague playoff appearance. The club anticipates Coffey will gradually adapt to European basketball while contributing immediately as a tough, versatile player capable of impacting both ends of the floor.