Yam Madar Signs with Maccabi Tel Aviv in Major Israeli Basketball Transfer

Yam Madar officially signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv on Sunday, completing a dramatic transfer from Hapoel Tel Aviv. The deal, revealed by ynet, is worth $6 million over three years. Madar's move is considered a seismic event in Israeli basketball, as he joins the reigning champions about two years after returning to Hapoel and playing a key role in their historic EuroCup victory and first EuroLeague season.

Madar expressed excitement about joining Maccabi, promising to give his all in every practice and game to help the club achieve its goals. Maccabi coach Oded Katash praised Madar's clear qualities, especially after his recent playoff performance, and emphasized the significant role planned for him. Katash also highlighted the strong bond between the team and its fans, anticipating a natural and deepening connection with Madar.

Club chairman Shimon Mizrahi welcomed Madar warmly, noting the enthusiasm surrounding his arrival as another Israeli player joining Maccabi's core. Madar arrived in Israel last Saturday after a national team game against Germany and quickly met with Katash and team manager Ami Biton. Maccabi made clear they intended to finalize terms during this meeting, which led to the signing.

Madar activated a $300,000 exit clause from his Hapoel contract after rejecting improved offers from the club, which had even proposed an unprecedented five-year, $12.5 million deal to retain him. Despite the higher financial offer, Madar chose Maccabi for the professional challenge and the opportunity to play a significant role under Katash in the EuroLeague.

This past season, Madar averaged under ten minutes per game in the EuroLeague due to a crowded backcourt at Hapoel and lacked assurances of increased playing time next season. However, he showcased his talent late in the Israeli league season, including a 41-point game against Maccabi. In the playoffs, he averaged 19.6 points and 5.6 assists per game, with standout performances in the derby finals despite Hapoel losing the series 3-1.

The 25-year-old guard began his career at Hapoel Tel Aviv (2018-2021), then played for Partizan Belgrade, where he was named EuroLeague's rising star, followed by stints at Fenerbahce and Bayern Munich. He returned to Hapoel in early 2024/25 and won the EuroCup but left due to limited playing time. His transfer to Maccabi Tel Aviv marks a new chapter in his career.