Noam Yaacov Signs Exhibit 10 Contract with Cleveland Cavaliers
Israeli guard Noam Yaacov has taken a significant step toward the NBA by signing an Exhibit 10 contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, following a standout season in Europe.
Noam Yaacov is continuing his journey toward the NBA after signing an Exhibit 10 contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The 21-year-old guard, who previously starred for Oostende and Hapoel Tel Aviv, aims to secure a roster spot or a two-way contract through the upcoming training camp.
Pathway to the NBA via Cleveland
The one-year, non-guaranteed minimum contract serves primarily as a training camp invitation, allowing NBA teams to evaluate players with low financial risk while retaining their rights. Yaacov will have the opportunity to split time between the Cavaliers and their G League affiliate, which is managed by Liran Fanan, who was named G League Executive of the Year last season.
An Exhibit 10 deal can be converted into a two-way contract prior to the start of the regular season without needing to waive the player. This structure allows a player to represent both the main NBA franchise and the G League affiliate, appearing in up to 50 regular-season games for the parent club.
Career Background and Ambitions
Last season in Belgium, Yaacov averaged 18.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, alongside strong performances in the FIBA Champions League. Having started his career with Hapoel Emek Hefer, he later played for LDLC ASVEL in France and returned to Israel for a stint with Hapoel Tel Aviv before heading to Europe.
"This is my time to bet on myself and take this risk in the G League. It is a very tough league where everyone is fighting to devour each other and earn an NBA contract," Yaacov said in a recent interview.
If waived before the regular season, a player on an Exhibit 10 contract can earn a substantial financial bonus of up to 85,300 dollars by spending at least 60 consecutive days with the franchise's G League affiliate, ensuring continued development within the organization.