The game-worn jersey of Deni Avdija from his final match with Maccabi Tel Aviv is now up for auction on the official Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv store. This event occurs just days before Avdija is set to become the first Israeli to partake in the NBA All-Star Game, marking a milestone for the player and the country’s basketball history.
The club announced further details regarding the auction process on Wednesday, highlighting the significance of this item to fans and collectors alike.
Background of the Jersey and Its Significance
On July 28, 2020, amid a season disrupted by the global pandemic, Deni Avdija made a remarkable comeback after gaining muscle mass and sharpening his skills. In the final against Maccabi Rishon LeZion, Coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos entrusted him with a starting position. Avdija played 26 minutes, contributing 7 rebounds, 2 steals, and 4 assists, eventually celebrating a championship victory with teammate Jake Cohen.
This game marked Avdija’s last appearance before entering the NBA draft later that year. Recognizing the moment’s importance, Maccabi Tel Aviv preserved the hand-signed jersey for years, awaiting the right occasion to share it. That moment has arrived as Avdija prepares for his NBA All-Star debut, turning the jersey into a prized relic.
Details and Authentication of the Auction Item
The jersey offered is an official blue Nike item, worn by Avdija during the 2020 Winner League Final where Maccabi Tel Aviv secured an 86-81 victory. It is size 54 with a +2 length adjustment and is authenticated by the club, ensuring its legitimacy for buyers and fans.
Auction Procedures and Participation Guidelines
The auction will open on Thursday, February 12th, at 5:00 PM Israel Time and will run until Sunday at 6:00 PM, just before the NBA All-Star Game begins. Starting bids are set at 5,000 NIS. Interested participants must register on the official Maccabi Tel Aviv store website, providing valid contact details.
Bids must rise above the current highest offer, displayed next to bidder initials for transparency. When bidding closes, the top offer will win the jersey, securing a significant memorabilia piece for Israeli basketball enthusiasts.
Per auction rules, all participants must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid credit card. The winning bid is binding, with no discounts or coupons applicable to this auction.
Charitable Contribution Linked to the Auction
In line with Deni Avdija’s values and path, 10% of the auction proceeds will be donated to Variety Israel. This organization supports children with special needs from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, a cause chosen by the Maccabi Tel Aviv Youth Academy, where Avdija launched his professional journey.
Why This Auction Matters for Israeli Basketball
This auction represents more than the sale of memorabilia; it commemorates Deni Avdija’s rise from a promising young talent to an NBA All-Star, highlighting his ties to Maccabi Tel Aviv and Israel’s basketball heritage. For fans and collectors, owning this jersey captures a piece of that transformation and the country’s sporting history.
As Avdija prepares to break new ground as the first Israeli NBA All-Star, this auction amplifies the excitement around his career and symbolizes the ongoing growth of Israeli basketball on the world stage.
For the first time, the club is hosting an official auction for a true "Holy Grail": The jersey worn by Deni Avdija in his final appearance in the Yellow-and-Blue – the 2020 Championship game where he was crowned League MVP 👇https://t.co/LPYOnleCHx
— Maccabi Tel Aviv BC (@MaccabiTLVBC) February 11, 2026
