Former G League standout heads to the Israeli capital on one-year deal with option
Hapoel Jerusalem signs Ukrainian center Dmytro Skapintsev

Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem signed Ukrainian center Dmytro Skapintsev for the 2025–26 season, with an option for a second year, the club announced on Thursday. The 27-year-old arrives in Israel after spending the past two seasons in the G League, most recently with the Portland Trail Blazers’ affiliate.
Skapintsev (2.16 meters, 27 years old) began his professional career with Cherkasky and also played for BC Kyiv and Pieno Zvaigzdes in Lithuania before joining the New York Knicks in 2022. He appeared in only two games for the Knicks, spending more time with their G League affiliate, Westchester, before joining the Maine Celtics and later the Rip City Remix. Known for his size, rim protection, and rebounding instincts, Skapintsev averaged 10.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game last season in the G League.
“Dima will give us toughness, rebounding, and smart decision-making under the rim. He’s a player with tremendous potential and a real presence in the paint.”
Over his first two G League campaigns, he posted averages of 10.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.6 blocks, showcasing a well-rounded skill set and consistent interior presence. He has also represented Ukraine at EuroBasket 2022 and in multiple youth competitions.