Hapoel Tel Aviv Signs Former NBA Forward Jacob Toppin to Three-Year Deal

Hapoel Tel Aviv has officially signed 26-year-old American-Jewish forward Jacob Toppin to a three-year contract worth $1.5 million per season, extending through the 2028/29 season. Toppin, who stands 2.06 meters tall, joins the Israeli Premier League club as part of its ambitious roster-building plan for the 2026/27 season and beyond.

Toppin played three seasons in the NBA and G League, appearing in 31 NBA games with the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks. He averaged 1.4 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game in the NBA, shooting 51.2% on two-pointers and 42.9% on three-pointers. In 73 G League games, he posted stronger averages of 19.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. Undrafted in 2023 after four college years (three at Kentucky), Toppin is known for his athleticism and participated in the 2024 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.

Hapoel Tel Aviv is currently working to secure Israeli citizenship for Toppin based on his Jewish heritage. This move aims to register him as a domestic player, providing coach Dimitris Itoudis with greater tactical flexibility regarding foreign player limits in both the Israeli league and EuroLeague competitions. The club’s strategy focuses on building a strong Israeli core alongside international talent.

After signing, Toppin expressed excitement about joining Hapoel Tel Aviv, saying he looks forward to competing, experiencing the club’s culture, working hard, and winning championships. Sporting director George Chinas praised Toppin’s athleticism, shooting ability, and hunger for titles, while coach Itoudis welcomed him to the team and highlighted his commitment to elevating the club’s performance.

This signing follows other recent moves by Hapoel Tel Aviv, including extending Israeli player Tomer Ginat’s contract until 2030 and signing guard Tomas Satoransky, underscoring the club’s comprehensive approach to strengthening its roster.