Hapoel Tel Aviv Remains Hopeful to Sign Mario Hezonja Despite NBA Uncertainty

Mario Hezonja, the Croatian forward and Real Madrid star, surprised his team on July 20, 2026, by activating his NBA exit clause worth $850,000 just hours before the deadline. Although he has not yet secured a guaranteed contract in the NBA, Hapoel Tel Aviv, along with Dubai and Panathinaikos, remain interested in signing him. The Israeli club is optimistic that Hezonja may join them during the upcoming season after initially signing a non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 contract in the NBA, which would allow him to compete for a roster spot without a guaranteed deal.

Hapoel Tel Aviv believes that by paying the exit clause from his own funds, Hezonja retains the option to return to Europe if he does not secure a permanent NBA contract. This arrangement would enable him to be released from Real Madrid before the season starts and potentially join a new EuroLeague team, benefiting both the player and the club. The team continues to maintain contact with Hezonja and monitor his market situation closely.

Earlier this month, Hezonja praised Hapoel Tel Aviv's ambitious team-building efforts and expressed his fondness for Israel and Tel Aviv. At 31 years old and standing 2.06 meters tall, Hezonja has been a standout player in Europe, averaging 13.3 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in the EuroLeague last season, along with 17.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game in the Spanish league. His potential move to Israel hinges on the outcome of his NBA negotiations and the possibility of signing a temporary contract that could lead to a full season with Hapoel Tel Aviv.