Maccabi Tel Aviv Signs Daniel Theis After Unique Negotiations and High Demands

Maccabi Tel Aviv officially announced the signing of experienced German center Daniel Theis on August 5, 2026, marking one of their most significant acquisitions this summer. Theis signed a two-year contract worth $4.4 million, or $2.2 million per season. Negotiations lasted about a week, initiated after Theis’s talks with Villeurbanne stalled amid uncertainty about that club's situation. His representatives then approached Maccabi, who were actively seeking a senior center to be the team’s starting big man.

Theis held several discussions with Maccabi’s head coach Oded Katash, who outlined the team’s professional plans, Theis’s role, and the vision for the upcoming season. Club chairman Shimon Mizrahi was personally involved, frequently communicating with Theis to expedite the deal, alongside professional manager Claudio Coldebella. Both sides viewed Theis as a key target, and the player was eager to join. Other European clubs, including one from Spain, attempted to engage Theis but quickly withdrew.

Professionally, Theis was convinced he would have a more significant role at Maccabi and received positive feedback from current players and club insiders. Unlike other foreign players in recent years, Theis did not inquire about Israel’s security situation; his main concern was the location of Maccabi’s EuroLeague home games, which will be held in Belgrade. Initially, Theis’s family will not relocate to Israel, not due to security concerns but because they did not enjoy their previous stay in Monaco.

Theis also made several personal requests: he owns a large dog and asked for an apartment with a balcony, a dog sitter during team travels, and a preference for a large car, ideally an Audi, for comfort. Maccabi agreed to accommodate these demands, reflecting the high standards Theis set during negotiations.

This signing highlights Maccabi’s commitment to strengthening their roster with experienced talent and the club’s willingness to meet unique player requirements to secure top-level athletes.