Jonathan Motley Leaves Hapoel Tel Aviv for Red Star Belgrade Seeking More Playing Time

Jonathan Motley, the American center, has parted ways with Hapoel Tel Aviv after a disappointing season and signed with Red Star Belgrade. In an interview from Serbia, Motley explained that he wanted more playing time, feeling he spent too much time on the bench last season, which did not align with his career goals at this stage.

Motley highlighted the significance of reuniting with Chris Jones, his primary point guard at Hapoel Tel Aviv, who assisted him in scoring 40 to 50 percent of his baskets. He emphasized the advantage of having a familiar teammate in a new environment.

He also discussed his connection with Boban Marjanović, a former Los Angeles Clippers teammate who now plays for Red Star. Marjanović advised Motley to be cautious when interacting with rival fans in Belgrade but encouraged him to enjoy the city and the club. Motley expressed excitement about playing alongside players like Vasilije Micić and praised Miloš Teodosić, Red Star’s sporting director and another former Clippers teammate, calling him "my guy."

Looking ahead, Motley set a clear goal for the upcoming season: to reach the EuroLeague playoffs, a milestone he has never missed and hopes to achieve with Red Star. He expressed optimism about contributing to the team’s success and embracing the passionate fanbase in Belgrade.