Hapoel Holon bolstered its frontcourt by signing American power forward Greg Lee, who arrives after averaging 10.1 points and 4.0 rebounds for La Rochelle in France, and added versatile guard Rivaldo Soares on a one‑year deal with an option for a second season.
Who signed and why does it matter?
Greg Lee, a 27‑year‑old power forward, comes from the French league after showing consistent production inside the paint. He is expected to improve Holon's low‑post scoring and rebounding, especially in pick‑and‑roll situations. Rivaldo Soares, a 26‑year‑old guard, arrived from Dziki Warszawa with 11.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game, bringing perimeter versatility and defensive flexibility.
How do the signings fit the current situation?
The club endured a losing streak – four straight defeats (LLLLW, the most recent a win) and the latest result was 73‑85 against Maccabi Tel Aviv on 2025‑05‑30. Adding Lee and Soares aims to close defensive gaps and provide more interior presence, potentially breaking the negative trend.
What can we expect on the court this season?
Coach Ori Kaplan stresses that Lee’s combination with local star Alon Cohen will secure stronger rebounding in the paint. Soares is projected to stretch the floor, increasing the team's three‑point attempts and enhancing pick‑and‑roll options. If the newcomers adapt quickly, Holon could raise its field‑goal percentage and cut turnover rates.
What does this mean for the league race?
Holon is targeting a top‑table finish in the Israeli Premier League, and the new pieces could shift the balance of power. Should Lee maintain a 10+ point and 4+ rebound average, he will rank among the league’s most impactful interior players. Soares, with his outside shooting, could push the team's three‑point percentage above 35%.
Linking to the latest data: after the 73‑85 loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv (2025‑05‑30) and a recent form of 1‑0‑4, the acquisitions appear as a strategic move to reverse the slide and chase wins.