Maccabi Tel Aviv Nears Signing Veteran German Center Daniel Theis

Maccabi Tel Aviv is reportedly close to signing veteran German center Daniel Theis, according to journalist Donatas Urbonas from Basket News. Theis, 34, standing 2.06 meters tall, appears to favor the Israeli champion's offer despite interest from several other EuroLeague teams. Previously, Theis was on the verge of joining French club Villeurbanne, whose owner Tony Parker confirmed in late June that an agreement was near. However, Villeurbanne has recently faced a severe financial crisis, forcing them to significantly reduce their 2026/27 budget and leading to the departure of key players like Silvan Francisco, who signed with Panathinaikos. This financial turmoil has opened the door for Maccabi Tel Aviv to pursue Theis.

If finalized, the signing would provide Maccabi with a highly experienced and proven frontcourt player. Theis has NBA experience, having played for the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Clippers, before returning to Europe where he became a cornerstone for Monaco. Over the past two seasons, he maintained strong performances in the EuroLeague, averaging 11.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game in 2024/25 and helping Monaco reach the competition final. Last season, he remained consistent with 9.7 points and 5.0 rebounds across 38 games.