The Atlanta Hawks signed Jacob Toppin to a two-way contract after the New York Knicks waived him during the 2024-25 season. Atlanta then signed him on a second two-way deal before last season, but an unfortunate shoulder injury limited him to just five games with the College Park Skyhawks. However, the 26-year-old's time with the organization has come to a close this summer.
Jacob Toppin joins Hapoel Tel Aviv in Israel
Toppin recently signed a three-year deal with the Israeli basketball team Hapoel Tel Aviv. It marks his first overseas contract in his professional career, but Toppin may have chosen Israel for more than just basketball. His mother, Roni Toppin, is of Italian and Jewish descent, which may have influenced his decision to play in the Jewish homeland.
Toppin played six games for the Hawks' main squad, but his tenure ended under unfortunate circumstances.
He played five games for College Park last season, averaging 18.0 points, 10.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.2 steals before suffering a right shoulder injury on Nov. 29. His recovery required season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum. Weeks later, the Hawks released the forward to bring in a healthy two-way contributor.
Toppin recently returned to the court with the Hawks at the 2026 summer league, vying for another two-way or guaranteed contract. However, Atlanta currently has RayJ Dennis, Keshon Gilbert, and newly signed Jalen Wilson on its three two-way deals.
With the roster at 17 guaranteed NBA deals and Jonathan Kuminga's decision still up in the air, the Hawks did not have the room to sign Toppin.
What does Toppin bring to his new squad?
Toppin will bring his versatile two-way skill set and athleticism to Tel Aviv. He can rise with power and slam home powerful dunks inside.
He showcased this ability when he participated in the 2024 NBA Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend. On top of his strong rim finishing, Toppin shot 35.6% from deep on 5.4 attempts per game for his G League career. The forward punishes defenses inside the paint and on the perimeter.
Perhaps Toppin's biggest weapon comes on the defensive end. At 6 feet 9, 205 pounds, he can guard multiple positions, moving his feet laterally to cover quicker guards and using his strength to fend off wings in the post. His leaping ability and defensive IQ also allow him to block shots as a help defender inside.
Tel Aviv Professional Director George Hinas highlighted Toppin's two-way versatility in the team's press release (translated to English).
"Jacob is a player who can play multiple positions. He is athletic, has shooting ability, and is hungry to win titles in the country where his roots come from. We congratulate him on joining our family and wish him success," said Hinas.
Hapoel has many former NBA players on the roster. Toppin joins a team with many players who have NBA experience. Antonio Blakeney, Johnathan Motley, Vasilije Micić, Ish Wainright, Dan Oturu, and Tyler Ennis all played in the league.
Tel Aviv certainly has a battle-tested roster, as it looks to take home the 2026-27 Israel Premier League title.
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