David Rudy Joins Hapoel Jerusalem Bringing NBA Experience and Physicality

Hapoel Jerusalem officially announced the signing of forward David Rudy on July 24, 2026. At 25 years old, Rudy is not a typical basketball player; he has a diverse athletic background including discus and shot put, and even played football, but ultimately focused on basketball. Standing 1.96 meters tall and weighing 115 kilograms, Rudy is known for his physicality and toughness on the court. He has played 173 NBA games across six teams, showcasing a gritty playing style rather than flashy scoring.

Rudy’s college career at Colorado saw a significant improvement in his three-point shooting, rising from 27.8% to 43.8%, which boosted his draft stock. He was selected 23rd overall in the NBA draft and traded to Memphis, where his physical style fit well with the team’s mentality. Despite a promising start, Rudy struggled with shooting consistency in the NBA, never fully establishing himself offensively. He played for several teams including Phoenix, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Houston, often valued for defense and physical presence rather than scoring.

In the 2025-26 season, Rudy played in the NBA G League, shooting 38.4% from three-point range, which suggests improved confidence in his shooting. Denver signed him to a two-way contract, but he saw limited playing time. Rudy’s role in Jerusalem is expected to be similar to that of Ish Wainwright, another former NBA player who became a key contributor in Israeli basketball through defense and physicality.

Coach Sasha Obradovic may use Rudy as a power forward or center, leveraging his strength to guard taller players and set effective screens. Rudy’s presence on the court is expected to create scoring opportunities for guards like Jared Harper by clearing paths and providing solid pick-and-roll options. While his shooting remains a question mark, his improved range and physical style could make him a valuable asset in the Israeli league. Rudy’s transition to European basketball might require adjustment, but his toughness and size could make him one of the strongest players relative to height in the league, potentially endearing him to Hapoel Jerusalem fans.

Summary: Hapoel Jerusalem signed 25-year-old forward David Rudy, a physically strong former NBA player with a diverse athletic background, to bolster their roster. Known for his defense and toughness, Rudy aims to improve his shooting and adapt to European basketball, potentially playing a key role in the team’s success under coach Sasha Obradovic.