Tomas Satoransky Joins Hapoel Tel Aviv Amid Security Concerns and New Team Base in Sofia

After six seasons in the NBA and another six with Barcelona, Czech point guard Tomas Satoransky joined Hapoel Tel Aviv about two weeks ago. In an extensive interview with Seznam Zprávy, the 34-year-old discussed his decision to sign with Dimitris Itoudis's team despite the "security challenge" involved. Next season, Hapoel Tel Aviv will base its operations in Sofia, Bulgaria, with the team traveling weekly to Israel for league games. Satoransky described the move to Sofia as "a more interesting destination than people think," noting that professional athletes often live in a bubble and that the team will stay in a complex close to the airport, arena, and school.

He explained that the possibility of spending some weekends in Sofia without playing was appealing. Satoransky and his family considered the move carefully, with his wife supporting the decision as a new experience despite the challenges. Their children, accustomed to frequent relocations and attending English-speaking private schools, adapt well to changes. He expressed excitement and curiosity about the upcoming season but noted one potential complication: if EuroLeague games return to Tel Aviv, it could complicate matters.

A key factor in choosing Hapoel was the chance to reduce his workload. The team flies to Israel every weekend for league games, but only five foreign players can be registered, allowing for rotations. Satoransky was informed he would not be the leading point guard, likely serving as the second or third option behind Vasilije Micić, which suited him. He shared concerns about his physical condition, mentioning that his body is starting to deteriorate and he no longer wants to bear the full burden on the court.

Despite the reduced role, Satoransky believes in Hapoel's project, praising the owner’s vision and the ambition to win the EuroLeague title.