Yam Madar Signs With Maccabi Tel Aviv in Major Summer Transfer

Yam Madar, the 25-year-old Israeli basketball guard, has officially signed a three-year contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv, including an option for two additional seasons. The transfer from Hapoel Tel Aviv to their city rivals was finalized after Madar passed medical tests and completed all bureaucratic procedures. Madar activated a release clause in his contract with Hapoel Tel Aviv, becoming a free agent before negotiating with Maccabi Tel Aviv, where coach Oded Katash identified him as a key target to strengthen the backcourt for the upcoming season.

Madar, a member of the Israeli national team, is expected to earn approximately $2 million per season, plus bonuses, making this one of the most lucrative deals for an Israeli player. Maccabi Tel Aviv views him as a central figure in their roster as they prepare for the EuroLeague and Israeli Premier League campaigns. The club has been actively building its squad this summer, having already signed Bonzi Colson and retained Oshae Brissett.

Hapoel Tel Aviv attempted to retain Madar by offering a new contract, but he chose to join Maccabi Tel Aviv after paying the release fee stipulated in his contract. The official presentation of Madar by Maccabi Tel Aviv is expected in the coming days, marking the end of a highly discussed transfer saga in Israeli basketball history.