Maccabi Tel Aviv Nears Signing Former Fenerbahce Center Armando Bacot for 2026/27 Season

Maccabi Tel Aviv is close to finalizing a deal with Armando Bacot, a 26-year-old center who played last season for Fenerbahce, as the team seeks to strengthen its roster for the 2026/2027 basketball season. Sources within the club expressed confidence that Bacot will sign and join the team, marking a significant development in negotiations. Unlike previous cases, the current security situation is not expected to hinder the signing.

The club is also continuing its search for an additional senior center to lead the hierarchy and a guard to reinforce the backcourt. Bacot has been on Maccabi Tel Aviv’s radar for some time. Although the team explored other options, none materialized, and Bacot, who struggled to find a team after his stint in Europe, has regained relevance.

Bacot arrived in Europe last summer, joining Fenerbahce for his first season outside the United States. Prior to that, he played exclusively in the NBA G League with the Memphis affiliate after completing five seasons at the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. Despite impressive college and G League stats, Bacot’s impact in the EuroLeague was limited, averaging 2.4 points and 1.8 rebounds over 26 games with about 10 minutes per game. In the Turkish league, he posted slightly better numbers but has not appeared in a game since April 7 against Hapoel Tel Aviv.

Maccabi Tel Aviv’s pursuit of Bacot reflects its strategic efforts to build a competitive team for the upcoming season, balancing experience and potential in key positions.