Basket rumors

Zalgiris Kaunas Nearing Deal With Carsen Edwards

Zalgiris Kaunas is reportedly finalizing the details of an agreement with Carsen Edwards as the Lithuanian champions continue to reshape their roster.

According to BasketNews sources, the 28-year-old guard is close to joining the club and is expected to form a new backcourt partnership with fellow newcomer Saben Lee.

The moves come after Sylvain Francisco’s departure to ASVEL Villeurbanne. Edwards is coming off an impressive 2025-26 EuroLeague campaign with Virtus Bologna, where he averaged 17.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 25 minutes per game, establishing himself as one of the competition’s most dangerous scorers.

Zalgiris Kaunas Close to Signing Maxwell Lewis

Zalgiris Kaunas are reportedly close to reaching an agreement with Maxwell Lewis, who spent the season with Lithuanian League runner-up Juventus Utena.

According to BasketNews sources, the two sides are nearing a long-term deal. The plan would see Lewis spend the 2026-27 season on loan, with the London Lions emerging as the most likely destination. Before moving to Europe, the talented forward played in the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets.

Across two NBA seasons, Lewis appeared in 62 games, averaging 2.0 points in 6.9 minutes per contest while gaining valuable experience at the highest level.

Sasha Djordjevic’s future: a change of course—Bahcesehir close to a deal

Sasha Djordjevic is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with Bahçeşehir. According to Sportando, this appears to be the decision made by the Serbian coach after recent openings toward a possible return to Virtus Bologna.

The Italian club is still believed to be making one final push to convince Djordjevic, but the direction now seems clearly headed toward Turkey.

Virtus Bologna, Sasha Djordjevic ready to accept two-year offer

Virtus Bologna are getting closer to bringing Sasha Djordjevic back to the bench. The Serbian coach, who won the Italian championship with the club in 2021, has now made Bologna and Italy his top priority.

Djordjevic had been in talks with Bahcesehir for some time, but the chance to return to EuroLeague with Virtus has changed the picture. The Italian club is targeting an experienced coach with strong ties to the organization and the fanbase.

The deal is expected to be completed by the end of the week. For Virtus, it would be the first major step in building a new technical project after a season that ended earlier than expected.

Bahcesehir Reportedly Joins the Race for Nikola Mirotic

According to Meridian Sports, Bahcesehir has emerged as another contender to sign Nikola Mirotic, who is expected to leave AS Monaco after just one season.

In addition to offering a lucrative contract, the ambitious Turkish side—eliminated yesterday by Besiktas in Game 5 of the BSL semifinals—could try to lure the former Olimpia Milano star by appointing Sasha Djordjevic as head coach. Meridian Sports reports that Djordjevic’s arrival is considered a certainty, despite reports published today in Italy suggesting otherwise. The club hopes that his presence could persuade Mirotic to move down to the EuroCup level.

Mirotic averaged 11.0 points and 4.3 rebounds in 19 minutes per game in the EuroLeague this season. His performances have reportedly attracted interest from several clubs, all eager to secure the services of the 35-year-old power forward.

PAOK Signs RaiQuan Gray to a Two-Year Deal

PAOK has officially announced the signing of RaiQuan Gray, who will join the Greek club on a two-year contract.

The American forward, coming off two strong seasons with AEK Athens in both the Stoiximan GBL and the Basketball Champions League, will remain in Greece and is expected to be a key addition to PAOK’s roster through the end of the 2027-28 season.

In the 2025-26 Greek League campaign, Gray appeared in 27 games, averaging 12.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.

He also played a crucial role in AEK’s run to the Basketball Champions League Final, posting averages of 12.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists across 17 games in the competition.

Valencia Basket set to secure Kameron Taylor with new deal through 2028

Valencia Basket is close to securing the long-term future of one of the key pieces of its roster. According to reports from BasketNews, later confirmed by Encestando, Kameron Taylor is expected to sign a new contract that will keep him with the club until 2028.

Taylor was already under contract through 2027, but his previous deal reportedly included a €1.5 million buyout clause that attracted significant interest from Panathinaikos Athens.

To avoid any potential departure, Valencia moved quickly to renegotiate the agreement and offer improved terms. According to the reports, the new contract could become the most lucrative deal in club history, underlining the organization’s commitment to building its future around the American forward.

Valencia Basket continues EuroLeague franchise negotiations with €50 million valuation

Valencia Basket is continuing its efforts to secure a long-term place in the EuroLeague. According to Las Provincias, initial valuations for entering the competition as a franchise place the Spanish club at around €50 million, significantly below the €75-80 million figures reportedly associated with other interested teams.

The report also notes that, under the current financial model, Valencia Basket would actually lose money by participating in the EuroLeague, making the economic framework a crucial factor in ongoing discussions.

As a result, the distribution of future revenues has emerged as the key point in negotiations. The structure of income generated by the competition is expected to play a decisive role in any potential agreement between Valencia Basket and EuroLeague.

Real Madrid delays decisions on Scariolo and transfers after titleless season

According to Encestando, Real Madrid have entered a period of internal analysis after a season without trophies and an early ACB playoff exit. The club has postponed decisions on Sergio Scariolo’s future, his staff and several transfer moves.

Real Madrid are taking time to evaluate the situation after a disappointing campaign. The home elimination in the ACB quarterfinals against the eighth seed, with 107 points allowed, overshadowed the positive work done earlier in the season.

Sergio Scariolo’s future remains undecided. The initial feeling was that the Italian coach could continue, but the final call will be made by Florentino Pérez after reports from the key figures in the basketball section, including Sergio Rodríguez.

The transfer strategy could also change. Beyond Trey Lyles’ expiring contract and Usman Garuba’s long-term injury, the club has reportedly identified the need for another point guard to reduce Facundo Campazzo’s workload and a scorer able to unlock difficult games.

Yago Dos Santos linked with Flamengo return after Virtus Bologna stint

Virtus Bologna are set for major changes next season, and Yago Dos Santos is among the players expected to leave. The 1999-born guard joined the club on April 10 on a three-month deal, as an emergency addition to the backcourt.

His impact with Virtus was not what the club had hoped for, although his situation must be viewed in context given the limited time he had to fit into the team’s system. Between the Italian league and playoffs, Dos Santos was used inconsistently and was occasionally left out of the technical rotations.

A return to Brazil now appears to be one of the most concrete options. Reports from South America strongly link Yago with Flamengo, the historic Rio de Janeiro club where he made his name before moving to Europe with Ulm and Crvena Zvezda.

Baskonia interested in DJ Stewart as Luwawu-Cabarrot replacement

Baskonia are working on different market scenarios after being eliminated from the ACB playoffs. The expected departures of Forrest, Luwawu-Cabarrot and Diakite would leave the club without three starters and key offensive pieces.

Replacing Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot is one of the main priorities. The French wing appears close to accepting an offer from ASVEL Villeurbanne, forcing Baskonia to search for a scoring guard-forward.

One of the names on the list is DJ Stewart, a 1.96-meter American wing who turns 27 in July. In the last EuroCup season, he averaged 14 points, 3.5 rebounds and shot 41% from three-point range, emerging as one of the competition’s top perimeter players.

Virtus Bologna, Sasha Djordjevic becomes top target for head coach job

Virtus Bologna continue to work on their next head coach, and Sasha Djordjevic has emerged as the leading name. The club is still evaluating several options, but the 2021 championship-winning coach is now the priority.

Djordjevic already knows the Virtus environment and remains tied to one of the club’s most memorable seasons. In 2021, he led the team through a dominant playoff run, capped by a 4-0 Finals sweep over Milano.

An agreement still needs to be reached to make the comeback happen. If the deal is completed, Virtus would restart with a strong personality on the bench and a name capable of immediately energizing the fanbase.

Virtus Bologna consider Petteri Koponen for head coach job: a romantic option for the bench

Virtus Bologna are evaluating their future on the bench, and according to Corriere dello Sport Bologna, Petteri Koponen is one of the intriguing names around the club. The former Virtus guard has coaching experience in New Zealand and with EuroLeague youth teams, making him a young and fascinating option.

Koponen is not necessarily the clear favorite, but his profile would fit a new direction based on younger and more sustainable choices. His connection with the fanbase could be a major factor, as his return would carry strong emotional value for the Virtus Bologna environment.

At the same time, Matt Morgan seems close to leaving the club. The guard posted a thank-you message on social media, writing: “This will always be my home”. His words suggest that his time with Virtus Bologna has likely come to an end.

Buducnost Keeps Axel Bouteille for the 2026-27 Season

After confirming the renewals of Magee and Boutsiele, Buducnost has also announced that Axel Bouteille will remain with the club for the 2026-27 season.

The 31-year-old French wing is coming off an excellent campaign, particularly in the EuroCup, where he averaged 11.6 points in just 19 minutes per game. Bouteille was highly efficient, shooting 60% from the field, 51% from three-point range, and 88% from the free-throw line. His production and experience were key factors in Buducnost’s season, prompting the club to secure his services for another year.

 

Real Madrid facing key summer after playoff exit: Scariolo and roster under review

Real Madrid is entering a crucial summer after being eliminated by La Laguna Tenerife in the ACB quarterfinals, its first exit at that stage in 18 years.

According to AS, the first major decision will involve Sergio Scariolo, who is under contract until 2028 but is now being evaluated after a trophyless season. Late-game struggles were one of Madrid’s recurring issues throughout the campaign, from the Supercopa to the Liga Endesa.

Several roster questions remain open: Trey Lyles wants to return to the NBA, Mario Hezonja has an NBA exit clause until July 20, while the club needs to address the shooting guard position and manage Facundo Campazzo’s workload. The frontcourt behind Edy Tavares also needs clarity, with Usman Garuba expected to remain out until at least February or March.

Partizan close to extending Tonye Jekiri

Partizan Mozzart Bet is reportedly close to extending Tonye Jekiri.

According to Meridian Sport, the Nigerian center, who joined during the season from CSKA Moscow as a replacement for Tyrique Jones, could soon sign a new contract with the black-and-white club.

Jekiri played 15 EuroLeague games, averaging 7.5 points, 5 rebounds and 1.4 assists. In the ABA League, he posted 9.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists over 17 games.

Baskonia weighing Paolo Galbiati future: club can cut contract until July 5

Paolo Galbiati’s future with Baskonia remains a topic of discussion after the ACB quarterfinal elimination against Joventut.

According to Noticias de Álava, the club had guaranteed the Italian coach continuity for next season, but his contract still includes a clause allowing Baskonia to cut ties until July 5.

Galbiati described the season as “the most difficult of my life” and did not clearly address his future after the loss. The Copa del Rey title and a strong ACB regular season remain in his favor, but the playoff disappointment has reopened the debate.

Zalgiris Kaunas close to signing Saben Lee

Zalgiris Kaunas is reportedly on the verge of completing a major signing ahead of the new season. According to recent reports, the Lithuanian club is close to reaching an agreement with Saben Lee on a two-year contract.

The American guard is expected to replace Sylvain Francisco, who is set to leave Kaunas this summer. Lee began last season with Olympiacos before joining Anadolu Efes, where he appeared in 16 EuroLeague games and averaged 11.2 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.7 rebounds per contest.

His arrival would mark one of the most significant roster changes for Zalgiris as the club prepares for the 2026-27 campaign.

Partizan reaches agreement with Kevarrius Hayes on two-year deal

Partizan Mozzart Bet has reportedly reached an agreement with Kevarrius Hayes.

According to Mozzart Sport, the American center will sign a two-year contract worth $1.5 million per season, leaving Monaco after his latest EuroLeague campaign.

Hayes, 29, averaged 6.3 points and 3.4 rebounds in just over 17 minutes per game last season. During his career, he has also played for Paris, Zalgiris, Bursaspor, ASVEL and Cantù.

 

Rytas Vilnius, Francesco Tabellini among head coach candidates

Rytas Vilnius is evaluating its head coaching position, and Francesco Tabellini is reportedly among the names under consideration.

According to Lithuanian journalist Rokas Pakenas of 15min, Tabellini was seen in Vilnius a few days ago.

Rytas is said to be considering four candidates for the head coach job. The leading options at this stage are reportedly Kazys Maksvytis and Francesco Tabellini.

Bayern Munich reportedly set to name Anton Gavel as new head coach

Bayern Munich has reportedly chosen Anton Gavel as its new head coach for next season.

According to reports from Turkey, the Bavarian club has ended its coaching search by reaching an agreement with Gavel, who will take over the team in the EuroLeague.

Dusan Alimpijevic had also been on Bayern’s list of candidates for a long time, but the club’s final decision reportedly went in Gavel’s favor.

ASVEL in talks with Nick Weiler-Babb as Tony Parker pushes market plans

Nick Weiler-Babb could leave Anadolu Efes and move to ASVEL Villeurbanne.

According to Eurohoops, the guard remains under contract with the Turkish club for next season, but he is already in talks with ASVEL, which is moving aggressively on the market under Tony Parker’s direction.

In the latest EuroLeague season with Efes, Weiler-Babb averaged 7.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.2 steals over 37 games, shooting 36.6% from three-point range.

Roma reportedly offers Nico Mannion $5 million over three years

Nico Mannion could become the first major signing of the new Roma project led by Donnie Nelson.

According to La Prealpina, the Italian national team guard has received a significant offer from the capital club: $5 million over three years. That proposal would be difficult for other options such as Varese and Napoli to match.

Roma is also reportedly close to Marko Simonovic, a 27-year-old big man developed between Siena and PMS Torino who can be registered as an Italian player. The coaching situation remains open, with Alexsander Sekulic and Paolo Galbiati among the names linked to the project.

Anadolu Efes set to bring back coach Luca Banchi

Anadolu Efes is reportedly preparing for another coaching change this offseason. According to BasketNews sources, the Turkish powerhouse is expected to appoint Luca Banchi as head coach for the 2026-27 season.

The move follows the conclusion of Efes’ domestic campaign, which ended with a 3-1 semifinal defeat against Fenerbahce in the Turkish League playoffs.

As a result, Pablo Laso is expected to depart the club after just one season in charge. If confirmed, Banchi would make a return to Istanbul, taking over a team aiming to re-establish itself among Europe’s elite.

ASVEL Villeurbanne targeting Nick Weiler-Babb in major offseason move

ASVEL Villeurbanne is continuing its ambitious offseason strategy and has reportedly entered talks with Nick Weiler-Babb, according to Eurohoops. The German guard remains under contract with Anadolu Efes for the 2026-27 season, but discussions with the French club are ongoing.

Known as one of the EuroLeague’s top perimeter defenders, Weiler-Babb also brings valuable playmaking skills and versatility on both ends of the floor.

During the 2025-26 campaign, he averaged 7.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. While no deal has been finalized, ASVEL president Tony Parker continues to push aggressively in the market to strengthen the Lyon-based club’s roster.

Buducnost Retains Fletcher Magee and Jerry Boutsiele for 2026-27

Buducnost has officially announced the return of Fletcher Magee and Jerry Boutsiele for the 2026-27 season.

The 29-year-old American sharpshooter, who has now spent three seasons in Podgorica, averaged 9.3 points per game while shooting 45% from three-point range in just 14 minutes per contest across the ABA League and EuroCup this season.

Boutsiele, meanwhile, completed his first campaign with Buducnost averaging 8.2 points on 60% shooting and 5.3 rebounds per game in 24 minutes of action.

Hapoel Tel Aviv, Kessler Edwards part ways

Hapoel Tel Aviv has announced the departure of forward Kessler Edwards.

The 25-year-old finished his first EuroLeague season averaging 3.8 points and 3.4 rebounds in 13 minutes per game.

The Israeli team bid him farewell with a message on social media.

 

Official: Davide Alviti signs multi-year extension with Pallacanestro Varese

Pallacanestro Varese announced the multi-year contract extension for Davide Alviti.

The Italian forward ended last season with 10.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

Aris Building Ambitious Roster Around Coach Spanoulis

Following the appointment of Vassilis Spanoulis as head coach, ambitious Aris Thessaloniki has quickly begun shaping its roster for next season.

The club has already finalized the signing of E.J. Liddell, the athletic forward coming off three NBA seasons. The former Ohio State standout averaged 5.7 points and 2.7 rebounds per game with the Brooklyn Nets last season and is expected to sign a two-year contract, according to Eurohoops.

Aris is also working on bringing two EuroLeague players to Greece: point guard Nenad Dimitrijevic and center Khem Birch. Negotiations for both players are reportedly at an advanced stage, with further updates expected soon.

Barcelona interested in Chinese Finals MVP Brandon Goodwin

Barcelona is also looking at Brandon Goodwin as it searches for backcourt reinforcements ahead of next season.

According to Mundo Deportivo, citing Encestando, the Blaugrana club has contacted the American guard of the Shanghai Sharks, who is coming off a Chinese league title.

Goodwin, 30 years old and 1.83 meters, averaged 17.6 points and 7 assists during the season and was named Finals MVP after posting 29 points and 9 assists per game in the series. After NBA stints with the Nuggets, Hawks, Knicks and Cavaliers, this would be his first European experience.

Gli ultimi commenti

Hot news