Vasa Micic move to Hapoel is shaking the market

In recent days, reports were circulating that Vasilije “Vasa” Micic was set to sign with one of several European teams. A few clubs were in the running, but it is now officially confirmed that the Serbian point guard, who played last season for the Charlotte Hornets, will join Hapoel Tel Aviv - a EuroLeague newcomer.

The ambitious project led by Ofer Janay, who is not shy about spending, is already taking shape. Although it initially seemed nearly impossible to bring in Micic - due to fierce competition from clubs like Fenerbahce, Olympiacos, and Real Madrid, as well as the player’s high salary demands, the deal is now done.

In an interview with a Serbian outlet, club owner Ofer Janay revealed that the negotiations with Micic and his agent were intense. While all the offers from competing clubs were similar, what made the difference was Janay’s honest approach. He told Micic he saw him as the leader of the team and also offered him a share in the club, a gesture that may have tipped the scales.

Although the exact salary figures for the three-year contract haven’t been disclosed, reports suggest the deal is worth between 15 and 18 million euros, making Micic the highest-paid player in European basketball, ahead of Kendrick Nunn. When factoring in possible earnings from shares and performance bonuses, it’s clear the Serbian star landed a premium deal.

Hapoel coach Dimitris Itoudis also expressed his excitement over Micic’s arrival. He joins a roster already featuring experienced EuroLeague players like Motley, Chris Jones, and his former teammate from Efes, Elijah Bryant, along with Oturu. The Greek coach said he had met with club management last year and personally recommended this major signing, calling it their first big win ahead of the new season.