By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
As Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv begins preseason preparations in Sofia, a notable absence looms over the squad’s training sessions. According to a report from Israeli outlet Ynet on Tuesday, newly signed point guard Tamir Blatt will not be joining his teammates on the court.
Despite recently inking a lucrative three-year contract, the 29-year-old playmaker has reportedly fallen out of head coach Dimitris Itoudis’ tactical plans. Consequently, the team’s management is actively searching for another European club to take on his contract for the upcoming 2026–27 season. This disconnect between the coaching staff’s vision and the son of legendary coach David Blatt has prompted a long-term strategy by the club to send him out on loan to a fellow EuroLeague competitor.
The decision leaves the seasoned veteran in organizational limbo, despite an impressive resume. The point guard boasts 162 appearances in Europe’s premier club competition, divided between stints with German side ALBA Berlin and crosstown rival Maccabi Playtika/Rapyd Tel Aviv, where he captured the second EuroLeague MVP of the Round honor of his career during his 2025–26 journey.
Meanwhile, international duties will temporarily shift the focus away from his club dilemma. Before resolving his future for the next club season, Blatt is expected to rejoin the senior national team of Israel in Riga for the late-August FIBA World Cup 2027 Qualifiers. There, he will aim to help his country overcome a 2–4 standing in Group K to start the second and final stage of Europe’s qualification rounds, heading to matchups against Poland and Latvia.
Make