Cory Carr Transitions From Player to Mentor at Maccabi Tel Aviv

When Maccabi Tel Aviv lifted its 47th Israel State Cup after a commanding 109–90 victory over Bnei Herzliya at Yad Eliyahu, the celebration stretched from the court to the stands. But one of the proudest smiles belonged to someone no longer in uniform.

Cory Carr.

The former NBA guard, who began his professional career with the Chicago Bulls after being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 1999, has come full circle in Israeli basketball. After nearly two decades playing in Israel including a championship run with Maccabi Haifa in 2013 Carr is now shaping the next generation as Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Player Development Head Coach.

And his fingerprints are everywhere on this title.

Carr joined Oded Katash’s staff this season, stepping into a newly defined role focused on individual growth and team culture. Arrive early to the arena and you’ll likely find him already on the floor, working one-on-one with players especially those adjusting to their first season overseas.

For a team that began the year with roster turnover, injuries, and the emotional weight of returning to competition during wartime, Carr’s presence has been steady and transformative.

“We didn’t start the season that well,” Carr admitted. “We had a lot of new players, a lot of guys who had never even been to Israel before. But we stayed patient. We’re getting better and better.”

That growth is visible. Maccabi sits atop the Israeli league standings, holds the State Cup, and remains in the hunt for a Euroleague postseason berth.

Carr’s impact goes beyond drills and footwork.

Having lived in Israel for many years and holding Israeli citizenship, he understands the rhythm of life in the country on and off the court. That perspective has proven invaluable for foreign players navigating a new culture.

“It’s important for them to have someone who understands the culture, the league, the people,” Carr explained. “On the court, that’s my job. But off the court, when they’re struggling and trying to find themselves, to be there for them as well.”

Head coach Oded Katash praised Carr’s energy and communication style, especially with younger players.

“He has the right language and the right mentality,” Katash said. “He’s a big addition for us.”

One player who has flourished this season is Roman Sorkin, now considered among the top big men in the Euroleague. Carr beams when discussing his growth.

“He’s one of the best players in Europe,” Carr said. “His confidence is growing, his physical confidence is growing. He’s versatile, agile, and just entering his prime.”

Carr has also worked closely with guards like Jeff Dowtin, who stepped into a starting role during the State Cup run and delivered under pressure.

“Cory’s been tremendous,” Dowtin said. “We might stay before practice or after practice to get some work in. He’s been amazing. He’s a big part of our success.”

The emphasis on personal development has allowed Maccabi to weather injuries to key players like Lonnie Walker and Iffe Lundberg. Others stepped up. The culture held firm.

Carr remains deeply connected to Israeli basketball beyond Maccabi. He speaks proudly of Deni Avdija, who began his career with the club and is now thriving in the NBA.

“He did it the right way,” Carr said. “He grew every year. He’s entering his prime, and the whole Israeli basketball nation is behind him.”

That phrase Israeli basketball nation captures something larger than trophies.

Maccabi Tel Aviv is not just a club. It is a symbol of excellence and continuity in Israeli sports. Its success reflects discipline, unity, and a refusal to settle values that resonate far beyond the hardwood.

Carr understands that legacy because he lived it as a player. Now he is helping write its next chapter.

“There are things behind the scenes that make a team really thrive,” he said. “Player development is a very important aspect. You have to commit to each player individually and try to get the best out of them.”

From NBA draft pick to Israeli champion to mentor shaping Maccabi’s future, Cory Carr embodies the spirit of growth and commitment that defines Israeli sports culture.

Maccabi Tel Aviv’s championship run is not only about wins. It is about building something lasting together.

Israel continues to shine through excellence in sport, unity, and perseverance. Share this story and subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected to the inspiring stories shaping Israel’s future.