Maccabi Tel Aviv is reportedly keeping tabs on veteran forward Serge Ibaka following his recent departure from Real Madrid. The information was first shared by Israeli journalist Moshe Barda on social media, stating, “I’m told Maccabi Tel Aviv are following the case of Serge Ibaka.”
Ibaka, 35, became a free agent after parting ways with Real Madrid on July 2. His exit came after a full EuroLeague season in which he averaged 6.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in just under 18 minutes per game.
The Congolese-Spanish big man, a 14-year NBA veteran, last played in the league during the 2022–23 season with the Milwaukee Bucks. He appeared in 16 games before transitioning back to European basketball with Bayern Munich, and then Real Madrid.
Maccabi, a perennial EuroLeague contender, is believed to be exploring ways to bolster its frontcourt ahead of the upcoming season. With Ibaka’s defensive presence, shot-blocking ability, and international experience, he could offer valuable depth and leadership.
Ibaka previously had a short EuroLeague stint with Real Madrid during the 2011 NBA lockout. He returned to the Spanish powerhouse in 2024 and played in 29 games this past season.
Over his EuroLeague career, Ibaka has played 63 games, averaging 9.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.0 block per contest, while shooting 62.5% from the field and 40.7% from beyond the arc.
In the NBA, the forward/center built a reputation as an elite rim protector and stretch big. He led the league in blocks in 2012 and 2013 and was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team three times.
Ibaka’s best NBA season came in 2013–14 with the Oklahoma City Thunder, when he averaged 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game. He won an NBA title with the Toronto Raptors in 2019.
