Hapoel Tel Aviv's Giorgos Hinas Says Yam Madar's Salary Demands Were Unrealistic

Hapoel Tel Aviv's professional manager, Giorgos Hinas, discussed the club's recent separation from Israeli basketball star Yam Madar in an interview from Greece. Hinas explained that Madar's last season with Hapoel was challenging, as he returned injured from national team duty and only resumed training in December 2025. Madar struggled to secure a spot in the rotation, especially with Chris Jones having an excellent season.

Hinas revealed that although Madar had reached an agreement with the coach and management, his financial demands were considered unrealistic by the club. "Without exaggeration, they would have made him the highest-paid player in the EuroLeague," Hinas said. Consequently, Hapoel Tel Aviv decided to end negotiations under those conditions and parted ways with Madar.

Regarding Madar's move to rival club Maccabi Tel Aviv, Hinas estimated that Madar's contract there is worth slightly over 2 million euros. He expressed belief in Madar's potential, noting that under coach Ketsch, who allows players considerable freedom, Madar could perform well if healthy. Meanwhile, Hapoel Tel Aviv is focusing on the upcoming season with ambitions to compete for all titles, with Hinas continuing to lead the team's roster building.

The club aims to build on last season's momentum and prepare a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.