Former Alabama center Clifford Omoruyi has inked a two-year contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv, a top Israeli basketball club. The deal, announced on September 1, 2025, marks the start of his professional career overseas after going undrafted in the NBA.
From College Star to Pro Overseas
Omoruyi, a 23-year-old Nigerian big man standing at 6 feet 11 inches, brings strong defensive skills to Maccabi. He spent four years at Rutgers before transferring to Alabama for his final college season.
In his time with the Crimson Tide during the 2024-25 season, he appeared in 37 games. He averaged 7.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while playing about 19 minutes each outing.
At Rutgers, he earned Big Ten All-Defensive honors in 2023 and 2024. His rebounding and shot-blocking stood out, making him a key player in the paint.
Why Maccabi Chose Omoruyi
Team officials praised his physical presence and athleticism. General manager Claudio Coldebella noted his ability to rebound, protect the rim, and run the floor.
Head coach Oded Kattash echoed this, calling him a player with good instincts and energy on both ends. Maccabi aimed to boost their frontcourt with his size and dynamism.
This signing completes their roster for the upcoming EuroLeague season. It adds depth to a team known for competitive play in Europe.
Here are some key attributes Maccabi highlighted:
- Strong rebounding, especially on offense
- Effective rim protection
- Athleticism in pick-and-roll defense
- Ability to complement fast guards
Shift from NBA Hopes
Omoruyi was expected to sign an Exhibit 10 deal with the Toronto Raptors after the 2025 NBA Draft. Reports in June suggested this path, but it never happened.
Instead, he chose the overseas route. This move allows him to gain pro experience in a high-level league.
Many undrafted players start abroad to build skills. Omoruyi’s decision follows a common trend for college stars seeking immediate playing time.
Career Stats Overview
To understand his potential, look at his college performance across seasons. He showed steady improvement in key areas.
| Season | Team | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Blocks Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-21 | Rutgers | 3.8 | 4.0 | 0.7 |
| 2021-22 | Rutgers | 11.9 | 7.8 | 1.2 |
| 2022-23 | Rutgers | 13.2 | 9.6 | 2.1 |
| 2023-24 | Rutgers | 10.4 | 8.3 | 2.9 |
| 2024-25 | Alabama | 7.9 | 6.5 | 1.1 |
These numbers highlight his growth as a defender and rebounder.
Impact on Maccabi and Beyond
Maccabi Tel Aviv, a EuroLeague powerhouse, hopes Omoruyi strengthens their interior play. The team has a history of developing talent that later moves to the NBA.
For Omoruyi, this could be a stepping stone. Success in Israel might open doors back to North America.
Fans are excited about his arrival, as seen in recent social media buzz. His athletic style fits the fast-paced European game.
Looking Ahead for Omoruyi
At 23, Omoruyi has room to grow. His defensive prowess could make him a standout in EuroLeague matches starting this fall.
This signing ties into broader trends of college players heading overseas post-draft. It reflects the global nature of basketball today.
Share your thoughts on Omoruyi’s move in the comments below. Did he make the right choice? Follow for more updates on international hoops.
