The Purdue Boilermakers are excited to welcome Omer Mayer, a 6-foot-4 freshman guard from Tel Aviv, Israel, whose EuroLeague experience adds significant pedigree to their backcourt for the 2025–26 season .
🌍 Background & Experience
Mayer arrives from Maccabi Tel Aviv, a top-tier European club known for elite competition. He averaged 2.6 points and 2.0 assists per game in the EuroLeague this past season, showcasing his poise on a major stage. He also capped off the year with an 11-point, three-assist performance against powerhouse Bayern Munich . A four-star prospect ranked among the top 50 nationally in the 2025 class, Mayer also made waves internationally—at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket, he averaged 18.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game .
🏀 Skill Set & Role
Coach Matt Painter emphasized Mayer’s versatility: “He can play either position, very good with the basketball, good decision‑maker, plays at an elite level in the EuroLeague … so we’re very excited about him.” Mayer’s 215-pound, 6-4 frame is ideal for both point guard and two-guard roles. He offers ball-handling, court vision, and off-the-ball shooting—an asset for a team that loses production when senior Braden Smith rests and wants continuity in guard play .
Mayer’s international pedigree also includes shared court time with former Purdue talents. He played alongside 7‑foot big man Trevion Williams at Maccabi and faced off against Carsen Edwards of Bayern Munich—both alumni of West Lafayette—highlighting the high-level competition he’s accustomed to .
🔋 Projected Impact
Purdue finished 24–12 in 2024–25, reaching the Sweet Sixteen . With Zach Edey now in the NBA and several seniors off the roster, guard development is crucial. Mayer immediately bolsters the backcourt, offering ball distribution and perimeter shooting, and will likely slot in for 15+ minutes per game as a true freshman .
⚙️ Fit in the Rotation
Entering a lineup anchored by Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, and CJ Cox, Mayer brings size and depth. His ability to run pick-and-rolls, knock down open shots, and manage tempo affords Painter flexibility in substitution patterns and defensive matchups . In time, he may evolve into a dual-threat starter.
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Bottom Line: Omer Mayer’s signing signals Purdue’s ambition to reinforce the guard position with international talent. His court awareness, size, and shooting make him an immediate fit off the bench, with significant upside as he adapts to NCAA play. West Lafayette rooting for a breakout freshman who could be a key cog for years.