Hapoel Tel Aviv Explores Signing Former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook for 2026/27 Season

Hapoel Tel Aviv is actively building its roster for the 2026/27 basketball season and is reportedly considering strengthening the point guard position. A surprising report from Europe on July 28, 2026, revealed that Hapoel Tel Aviv, alongside Panathinaikos and a Dubai team, is exploring the possibility of signing Russell Westbrook, the 2016/17 NBA MVP. Westbrook, 37, is currently a free agent after completing a season with the Sacramento Kings, where he averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds over 76 games. However, the Kings have shown no interest in re-signing him.

Despite the buzz, Hapoel Tel Aviv has officially denied any interest in Westbrook. Professionally, acquiring Westbrook would be an extraordinary move given his physical prowess, playmaking ability, and extensive NBA experience with over 1,200 regular-season games. Yet, his inconsistent three-point shooting and ball-dominant style could challenge his adaptation to European basketball and coach Dimitris Itoudis's system.

Westbrook is a nine-time NBA All-Star, holds the league record for most triple-doubles, and is listed among the 75 greatest NBA players. Currently, it is expected that he will continue seeking an NBA contract through his agents. Should no opportunity arise in the U.S., Europe might become a viable option for the first time in his career.