Former Maccabi Tel Aviv Official Reveals Jared Harper Nearly Signed Before Rising with Hapoel Jerusalem

Avi Even, a former Maccabi Tel Aviv official, disclosed in the latest episode of the podcast "Double Dribble" that Maccabi Tel Aviv seriously considered signing guard Jared Harper during the 2022/23 season. At the time, Harper was a bench player for Valencia but later became a star with Hapoel Jerusalem. Even explained that after Wade Baldwin's injury, Maccabi sought a replacement and was very interested in Harper, who had impressive EuroLeague stats, averaging 10 points in 17.5 minutes during his first season.

The negotiations progressed significantly but ultimately did not result in a contract. Even called Harper a "special player" and praised Hapoel Jerusalem for retaining him, calling it a major strategic success for the club. Panelist Dror Hoffman questioned why Harper did not return to the EuroLeague sooner, to which Even responded that Jerusalem's ability to keep Harper was a huge achievement.

Even also highlighted the signing of Jalen Smith by Maccabi Tel Aviv as a fantastic move, noting Smith's defensive versatility and ability to play multiple positions. He mentioned that Smith, like Harper, had been close to joining Maccabi before. Even concluded by saying Maccabi is building a very interesting team for the future.