Hapoel Tel Aviv is said to have made a substantial offer to former Milwaukee Bucks forward Nigel Hayes-Davis, aiming to lure the EuroLeague Final Four MVP back to Europe. Journalist Matteo Andreani reports the agreement could be worth roughly $11 million, including $2 million for the current season and $4.5 million for each of the following two seasons.
Hapoel Tel Aviv has submitted a significant offer of approximately $11 million to Nigel Hayes-Davis.
$2 million for this season, $4.5 million + $4.5 million for the remaining 2seasons.
Hapoel strongly wants to strengthen the team with the MVP of the last EuroLeague Final Four. pic.twitter.com/uR6ZjuxpGH
— Matteo Andreani (@matty_vanpersie) February 9, 2026
The 31-year-old entered free agency in the spotlight after the Milwaukee Bucks waived him. The forward is now evaluating opportunities that align with his desire for a multiyear, high-value contract.
The former Fenerbahce star captured the 2025 EuroLeague Final Four MVP and has piqued the interest of top European teams, including Fenerbahce and Panathinaikos, each capable of matching his contract demands.
Bucks Nigel Hayes-Davis returns to Europe?
Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Nigel Hayes-Davis (21) against the Denver Nuggets in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
His performances in Europe have cemented his reputation as a high profile player, despite a modest impact in the NBA.
Hapoel Tel Aviv currently holds fifth place in the 2025-26 EuroLeague standings with a 16-10 record, putting the club in contention for a strong playoff run.
This season, Hayes-Davis played 27 games with Phoenix, averaging 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds in 7.2 minutes per game. While his role in the NBA was limited, his achievements in Europe have maintained his appeal to top EuroLeague teams looking for both skill and leadership.
Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Nigel Hayes-Davis (21) against the Denver Nuggets in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Hayes-Davis’ choice will likely come down to contract value, role, and the chance to return as a key player. Accepting Hapoel’s offer would let him rejoin a team with championship ambitions after being waived by the Bucks while locking in a multiyear, lucrative deal.
Fenerbahce currently leads the EuroLeague with a 19-7 record, and Panathinaikos sits in eighth place at 16-11.