Top Agent Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Drama of Israeli Basketball Transfers This Summer

The summer of 2026 was turbulent for Israeli basketball, centered on two key players, Yam Madar and Tamir Blatt, and their agent, Mishko Raznatovic, who represented both. In an exclusive interview with Sport Channel, Raznatovic detailed the complex negotiations and decisions that shaped their moves.

Yam Madar, after a breakout season with Hapoel Tel Aviv, where he was instrumental in their EuroLeague playoff run, felt sidelined during the season with limited playing time. Despite efforts by Hapoel's management, including owner Ofer Yanai, to retain him financially, Madar was uncomfortable and chose to explore other offers. He ultimately declined a record $8.2 million NCAA college offer, preferring to continue in the EuroLeague for higher competition. Madar's transfer to Maccabi Tel Aviv was described as a "big decision," with aggressive negotiations led by Claudio Coldabella and later involving club owner Mr. Rakanti. Madar personally returned from national team duties to meet with Maccabi coach Oded Katash, who highly values him.

Tamir Blatt's situation contrasted with Madar's. After a strong season and switching to Raznatovic's agency, Blatt aimed to leave Israel for Europe. Raznatovic nearly secured a deal with Red Star Belgrade, but coaching changes stalled the process. Eventually, Hapoel Tel Aviv offered Blatt a three-year contract, which he accepted after turning down a $900,000 offer from Maccabi earlier in the summer. Negotiations with Hapoel involved owner Ofer Yanai, with some financial disagreements delaying talks but ultimately resolved.

Raznatovic highlighted the unusual dynamic between Maccabi and Hapoel, noting how quickly each side learned about his conversations with the other, a rarity in European basketball. He praised both players' professionalism and expressed optimism about their roles in the upcoming season. He also commented on the growing strength of Israeli basketball clubs, including Maccabi, Hapoel, and Jerusalem, and expects the Israeli league to become more competitive and entertaining.

Looking ahead, Raznatovic acknowledged the challenges for Hapoel Jerusalem to join the EuroLeague next season due to strong competition but remains hopeful. He urged Israeli fans to enjoy the exciting developments in their basketball scene.

Summary: Mishko Raznatovic, agent for Israeli basketball stars Yam Madar and Tamir Blatt, revealed details behind their summer transfers. Madar left Hapoel Tel Aviv for Maccabi Tel Aviv seeking a bigger role, rejecting a major NCAA offer, while Blatt moved to Hapoel Tel Aviv after a stalled European deal. Raznatovic described intense negotiations amid rivalry between clubs and expressed optimism for Israeli basketball's future.