Crvena Zvezda are in advanced talks to sign Johnathan Motley, with Hapoel Tel Aviv expected to cover part of the center’s salary next season.
Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade are working on a major frontcourt addition ahead of the 2026-27 season.
The Serbian club are in advanced negotiations with Hapoel Tel Aviv center Johnathan Motley, first reported Israel Hayom journalist Tomer Givati.
Mozzart Sport’s Nikola Stojkovic added that Zvezda are prepared to cover a significant part of the American big man’s contract to complete the move.
The Belgrade side would reportedly commit more than $1.5 million toward Motley’s salary, while Hapoel would pay the remaining amount owed under the contract he renewed in March.
Motley was initially reported to have agreed to a two-year, $5 million extension, although the actual value of the deal is believed to be slightly lower.
Motley provides an elite interior presence
The 31-year-old occupied a reduced role in Hapoel’s crowded frontcourt last season, averaging 8.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 0.9 assists in approximately 15 minutes per game in the EuroLeague.
He remained highly efficient, converting 65.4% of his two-point attempts and 48.8% from beyond the arc.
Motley previously demonstrated his ability to carry a much larger offensive workload during Hapoel’s EuroCup-winning 2024-25 campaign.
He produced 16.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while earning All-EuroCup First Team honors and being named the EuroCup Finals MVP.
Should the agreement be finalized, Motley would reunite with Chris Jones, who also moved from Hapoel to Crvena Zvezda this summer.
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