Hapoel Tel Aviv is making a serious push to land one of Europe’s most coveted free agents, putting a substantial offer on the table for former Milwaukee Bucks forward Nigel Hayes-Davis. The reported deal?
A three-year package worth around $11 million-$2 million for the remainder of this season, followed by $4.5 million annually over the next two. It’s a bold move from a team that’s clearly not content with just making the playoffs-they’re aiming to contend.
Hayes-Davis, now 31, finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career. After being waived by the Bucks, he’s back on the market and drawing significant interest, particularly from top-tier EuroLeague clubs.
And it’s no surprise why. Despite a quiet stint in the NBA-most recently appearing in 27 games for Phoenix and averaging just 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds in limited minutes-his European résumé speaks volumes.
He was the MVP of the 2025 EuroLeague Final Four with Fenerbahce, a performance that didn’t just boost his stock-it solidified his standing as one of the premier forwards in Europe. That kind of playoff pedigree is exactly what teams like Hapoel Tel Aviv are looking for as they gear up for the stretch run.
Currently sitting fifth in the EuroLeague standings with a 16-10 record, Hapoel is in a strong position to make a postseason push. But to get over the hump, they’ll need more than just solid team play-they’ll need a difference-maker.
Hayes-Davis fits that mold. He brings size, versatility, and the kind of leadership that can elevate a locker room.
More importantly, he’s proven he can deliver on the biggest stages in Europe.
Of course, Hapoel isn’t the only team in the mix. Fenerbahce and Panathinaikos-two EuroLeague powerhouses-are also reportedly circling, and both have the resources and prestige to make a compelling pitch. For Hayes-Davis, the decision will likely come down to three key factors: contract value, role, and the opportunity to be a centerpiece again.
If he chooses Hapoel, he’s not just securing a lucrative, multiyear deal-he’s stepping into a situation where he could be the guy. A focal point.
A leader on a team with real championship aspirations. And for a player who’s already tasted EuroLeague glory, the chance to do it again-this time in Tel Aviv-might be too good to pass up.
Bottom line: Hayes-Davis is one of the most intriguing names on the European market right now. And with Hapoel Tel Aviv swinging big, we could be witnessing the next major domino to fall in the EuroLeague arms race.