Maccabi Tel Aviv Strengthens Roster with Yam Madar, Eyes Frontcourt Boost

Maccabi Tel Aviv officially signed guard Yam Madar to a three-year contract with an option for two additional years, marking one of the most significant moves in Israeli basketball this summer. Madar, 25, joins a roster that already includes Bonzi Colson, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Jimmy Clark, Oshae Brissett, and John DiBartolomeo, all secured for the 2026/27 season. Despite this high-profile addition, the club is still actively building its squad.

The coaching staff, led by Oded Katash and sporting director Claudio Coldebella, is focusing on strengthening the frontcourt by recruiting two centers. The plan is to add a veteran center to lead the front line and a backup center to complement Roman Sorkin, who is also expected to receive a contract upgrade soon as part of the club’s long-term core.

Negotiations continue with guard Ife Lundberg, with no final decision yet, while Lonnie Walker’s future remains uncertain due to his NBA opt-out clause valid until July 15. The emerging roster currently features Madar, Clark, and Amit Abo at point guard; Walker and DiBartolomeo at shooting guard; Brissett, Colson, Will Rayman, Hood-Schifino, TJ Leaf, and Gur Lavi at forward; and Sorkin and Shane Hunter in the frontcourt. Completing the frontcourt with two additional centers remains the club’s primary objective before the season starts.