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Former NBA star Russell Westbrook in advanced talks to join Hapoel Tel Aviv

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Former NBA star Russell Westbrook is reportedly in advanced talks to join Israeli basketball club Hapoel Tel Aviv.
  • If the deal materializes, it would mark Westbrook's first professional basketball club outside of the United States.
  • The potential signing is considered one of the biggest in European and Israeli basketball history, though no agreement has been finalized.

Russell Westbrook, a former NBA MVP and one of the game's most decorated point guards, is reportedly in advanced negotiations to join Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv. This potential move, if finalized, would be the first time the 37-year-old star plays for a team outside of the United States.

Reports from U.S. journalists indicate that discussions between Westbrook and Hapoel Tel Aviv are progressing. While initial reports of interest from the Israeli club were previously denied, the latest information suggests a significant shift. The possibility of Westbrook playing in Europe, and specifically in Israel, is being described as one of the most significant signings ever for European basketball, and particularly for the Israeli league.

Westbrook's illustrious NBA career includes an MVP award, nine All-Star selections, and holding the all-time record for triple-doubles. He was also recognized as part of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team. He remains a free agent after concluding his previous NBA season. Hapoel Tel Aviv, along with other European clubs like Panathinaikos and a team in Dubai, had previously been linked to the player, but the current negotiations with the Israeli team appear to be the most concrete.

While the reports suggest advanced negotiations and that Westbrook is seriously considering a new chapter away from the NBA, no final agreement has been reached at this stage. The potential signing represents a major development for Hapoel Tel Aviv and the broader landscape of European basketball.

continue to advance

โ€” Marc JacobsJournalist reporting on the ongoing discussions between Russell Westbrook and Hapoel Tel Aviv.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.