Bonzie Colson II takes next step in pro basketball career by signing with Maccabi

While he was sharing his knowledge of the game with SouthCoast youth last week, New Bedford’s Bonzie Colson II was also taking the next step in his pro basketball journey.

The 26-year-old Colson signed a two-year contract with Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv last Wednesday.

“It’s a EuroLeague team and that’s the best league in Europe,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for me to continue to play the game that I love.

“It’s definitely the next step for me in my journey. I’m excited about it. We’ve been in talks for a while. To continue to play the game but also with the best talent in Europe is just great.” 

Colson joins a Maccabi team that is coming off a 17-11 campaign in 2021-22 and has a tradition of being a contender in the EuroLeague as a six-time champion.

“I’m excited for it,” said Colson, a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year at St. Andrews School in Barrington and former standout at Notre Dame. “There’s more expectations to be great. I’m with a legendary club that has won a lot of championships. I know the expectations are high. It’s a great fit for me and what I stand for.” 

GIVING BACK:New Bedford's Bonzie Colson II holds skills academy at GNB Voc-Tech

Colson recently wrapped up a strong performance with Pinar Karsiyaka by averaging 15.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.7 steals in the FIBA Basketball Champions League.

“I’m always going to continue to work,” he said. “Just continue to learn and develop. They know what I can do. My role is to be a great person and a great teammate. Also to defend, bring energy and score. 

“My goal is to get back into the NBA and this is part of the journey.”