By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Amir Coffey has leaped the Atlantic, signing with Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv to play in the EuroLeague. The former NBA swingman secured his future early this summer, finalizing his move to the Israeli powerhouse in early July. Reflecting on the swift transition, the Minnesota native noted that the decision-making process was quick and expressed his growing excitement to experience the electric atmosphere of European arenas.
“Honestly, this was the first team I talked to, which was kind of lucky for me,” Coffey shared with Frankie Sachs of EuroLeague.net in an interview posted Wednesday. “It worked out that way.”
Leaning heavily on feedback from new and former teammates, including childhood friend Dan Oturu, to ease any potential hesitation. However, beyond inside advice, the defining factor that captivated him from afar was the sheer energy generated by local fanbases. Longtime teammate Ivica Zubac had previously given him a glimpse of that passion through videos, sparking an intense curiosity that Coffey is now ready to satisfy firsthand on the court.
“My first impression was actually the fans, how crazy they are and how intense the stadiums get,” he explained. “I’m definitely excited. I love big crowds and crazy fan bases, so it’s always fun to play in those environments.”
Stepping into a new system, the versatile defender brings an underdog mentality forged from going undrafted before carving out a productive seven-year NBA career. Individual accolades or external noise matter far less than winning over his new locker room and coaching staff. When asked what message he wanted to send to the passionate supporters waiting for him in Tel Aviv, the answer remained beautifully straightforward.
“Nothing out of the blue,” he said. “I’m just here to win.”
Opening the 2026–27 Regular Season, Hapoel takes on FC Bayern Munich in Sofia on September 24.
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