Basket rumors

From Spain | Baskonia not satisfied with coach Paolo Galbiati: replacement being sought

Rumors from Spain are emerging regarding the future of coach Paolo Galbiati. According to reports from Marca, Baskonia are not fully satisfied with the Italian coach and are already looking for a possible replacement.

Despite leading Baskonia to victory in the Copa del Rey, Galbiati’s position is reportedly still under threat. The Italian coach has built a strong relationship with the players, but the club’s management is said to be considering a change and preparing to move in a different direction.

Coach Galbiati signed a one-year contract with an option for a second season last summer when he joined Baskonia, meaning a departure at the end of the season remains a concrete possibility.

Real Madrid in advanced talks with Omer Yurtseven for ACB playoffs

Real Madrid is in advanced talks to sign Omer Yurtseven for the remainder of the season, according to BasketNews.

The Turkish center, born in 1998, would join to strengthen Madrid’s frontcourt rotation for the ACB playoffs, but he would not be eligible for EuroLeague action. Real recently lost both Edy Tavares and Alex Len, leaving Usman Garuba as the only regular center.

Yurtseven started the season with Panathinaikos before finishing the year between the G League and the Golden State Warriors organization. In 9 appearances with Golden State, he averaged 3.8 points and 3.3 rebounds.

Earlier in EuroLeague with Panathinaikos, he posted 6.3 points and 3.5 rebounds in under 13 minutes per game. Real Madrid finished first in the ACB regular season and is also preparing for the EuroLeague Final Four semifinal against Valencia.

Armoni Brooks: Milan is building a competitive team. Let’s find a solution

Armoni Brooks, the LBA league MVP, spoke to *La Gazzetta dello Sport* on the eve of the 2026 LBA Playoffs. Naturally, the conversation also turned to his future, as the player is reportedly holding a lucrative offer from Partizan.

ON A DECISION ABOUT HIS FUTURE

“Not yet, I’m weighing my options. The situation is constantly evolving, so I can’t be certain yet what will happen.”

ON WHAT HE’S LOOKING FOR

“Wherever I am, I just want the chance to compete. I believe the team Milan is building could be very competitive. We just need to take it one day at a time and make sure we find common ground, and we can find a solution.”

Is Walter De Raffaele leaving Cantù to sign with a team in Japan?

Pallacanestro Cantù has lost Walter De Raffaele: the coach has exercised his option to terminate his contract with Acqua S.Bernardo without penalty, as announced by the club.

The decision marks a new chapter for the Brianza-based club, fresh off its return to Serie A. According to Sportando, De Raffaele is expected to continue his career in Japan, in the new Premier B League launching this year, thus leaving the Cantù bench following the promotion.

“In recent weeks,” commented President Roberto Allievi, “the club has begun planning for the 2026–2027 season with the goal of achieving further athletic improvement, while also working on a proposal aimed at encouraging the coach to stay. We understand, however, his decision to seize this important opportunity.”

Cantù now faces a process of technical and managerial restructuring. The club will need to redefine the role of general manager and identify a new head coach to lead the team into the upcoming season.

This marks a major turning point for Pallacanestro Cantù, which must quickly rebuild its organizational structure in preparation for its return to the top division.

Casademont Zaragoza Signs Gabriel Olaseni for the Rest of the Season

Casademont Zaragoza has officially announced the signing of Gabriel Olaseni.

The British big man has signed a deal through the end of the season.

Olaseni arrives from Mersin, where he was averaging 11.1 points and 7.8 rebounds per game in the Turkish BSL.

Dubai Basketball nearing deals with EuroLeague standouts Alpha Diallo and Mamadi Diakite

Dubai Basketball are preparing two major additions for next season. According to BasketNews, the club is finalizing agreements with Alpha Diallo and Mamadi Diakite, two standout EuroLeague players.

Diallo, a 28-year-old 2.01m forward, was named EuroLeague Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 11.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.4 steals with AS Monaco.

Diakite, a 29-year-old 2.06m center, is coming off a strong rookie EuroLeague season with Baskonia. Over the final stretch, he averaged 14 points, 6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks, shooting 71% on two-pointers.

Maccabi Tel Aviv Target J.D. Notae for Late Season Reinforcement

According to Israel Hayom, Maccabi Tel Aviv is attempting to bring J.D. Notae to Israel to replace Jeff Dowtin Jr. for the final stretch of the Winner League season.

The 27-year-old guard has remained without a team following the collapse of Trapani Shark and had already been linked to Maccabi as a potential target for next season.

By making the move now, the team led by GM Claudio Coldebella would get a head start on evaluating Notae’s qualities and his fit with the current roster ahead of next year.

Hapoel Tel Aviv target Jean Montero, ready to offer $2.5 million per season

Hapoel Tel Aviv are reportedly targeting Jean Montero, Valencia’s star guard and one of EuroLeague’s hottest players.
According to the Israeli report, the club are ready to pay his €1.5 million buyout clause.

Hapoel have contacted the player’s agent and made it clear that paying the EuroLeague exit clause in Montero’s Valencia contract would not be an issue. The club have also reportedly submitted an offer worth around $2.5 million per season.

Montero, however, is not rushing his decision. The guard has informed Hapoel Tel Aviv that he has several offers on the table, including NCAA proposals believed to exceed $4 million gross per season.

The Dominican guard has delivered an outstanding EuroLeague season, winning Rising Star honors, earning a First Team selection and averaging 14.4 points, 4.8 assists and 3.0 rebounds. After a win over Hapoel, he had admitted: “I was very close to joining Hapoel Tel Aviv last summer.”

Thorsten Leibenath to leave Ulm after 15 years, joining Bayern Basketball

Thorsten Leibenath will leave ratiopharm Ulm at the end of the season after 15 years with the club.
He will become the new sporting director of FC Bayern Basketball.

A head coach, sporting director, record-setting coach, runner-up and championship architect, Leibenath has shaped an era at the OrangeCampus. Bayern have secured a key figure for the sporting planning of their EuroLeague team and reigning German champions.

Ulm announced the move to provide clarity and prevent speculation, while confirming that Leibenath will continue working with the club until the end of the season. He will then move to Munich during the offseason.

The club also stated that no further comments on the move will be made while the team remains in competition. The focus now is fully on ratiopharm Ulm’s title push.

Pierric Poupet close to Limoges agreement after Asvel exit

Pierric Poupet could continue his coaching career with Limoges after his stint at Asvel.
According to Basketball Sphere, both sides are in advanced talks over a deal for next season.

The French coach is not expected to remain with Asvel, where Tony Parker is set to take over as head coach. For Poupet, this would mark a return to Limoges, 23 years after first joining the club as a player.

Asvel struggled in EuroLeague this season, finishing with an 8-30 record. The team performed much better in LNB Pro A, where it currently sits fourth at 20-9.

Limoges are already working on next season’s roster after another disappointing campaign. The club is between 11th and 13th place at 11-18 and appears unlikely to secure even a play-in spot.

Official: Jimmy Clark III signs Three-Year Extension With Maccabi Tel Aviv

Maccabi Tel Aviv has officially announced a three-year contract extension for Jimmy Clark III.

“We are very happy and proud to continue with Jimmy,” said head coach Oded Kattash after the signing. “It felt like the natural and right decision for both sides. Jimmy has become one of our anchors, and we are very pleased with the tremendous progress he has made and continues to make. Continuity is an important factor for us, so I’m really satisfied.”

The 25-year-old point guard joined Maccabi during the 2024–25 season and immediately made an impact with his contributions on both ends of the floor.

This year, Clark III finished the EuroLeague season averaging 9.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 1.3 steals in 19 minutes per game.

Olimpia Milano Reportedly Showing Interest in Jan Vesely

According to Encestando, Olimpia Milano is currently the team showing the strongest interest in Jan Vesely.

The 36-year-old former NBA lottery pick, who is expected to leave Barcelona after 4 years, finished the EuroLeague season averaging 8.7 points and 3.3 rebounds in 21 minutes per game.

The two sides have reportedly already opened negotiations, although no agreement has been reached so far.

Olimpia Milano exploring Duane Washington Jr. if Armoni Brooks renewal talks collapse

According to ROM and Sportando, Olimpia Milano are evaluating alternative options in case negotiations to renew Armoni Brooks collapse, with Duane Washington Jr. emerging as a target, who is coming off an excellent season with Partizan Belgrade.

Washington is currently under contract with the Serbian club until 2026, with an option for an additional season. However, Milano are believed to have made progress in recent talks. Despite this, the club’s main priority remains extending Brooks’ contract.

During the latest EuroLeague season, Washington averaged 15 points and 2.5 assists per game.

Gordon Herbert set to join New Zealand Breakers in major NBL coup

The New Zealand Breakers are moving toward a major coaching hire. According to Fox Sports Australia, the NBL club is set to appoint Gordon Herbert as its next head coach following the departure of Petteri Koponen.

Herbert, 67, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished coaches in international basketball. He has led major European clubs, including Bayern Munich, and is best known for his successful spell with Germany’s men’s national team from 2021 to 2024.

Currently the head coach of Canada, Herbert would bring elite international experience to the Breakers after the club missed out on Judd Flavell and Mody Maor. His arrival would represent one of the biggest coaching moves on the NBL market.

Sylvain Francisco Reportedly Near Dubai Deal with NBA-Out Clause

As previously reported, Sylvain Francisco, the talented point guard currently playing for Žalgiris Kaunas, plans to pursue an NBA opportunity this summer.

Should the attempt in the United States not work out, the 28-year-old French guard is expected to join the ambitious Dubai Basketball for next season.

The news was reported by Basketball Sphere.

Francisco and Dubai are reportedly close to finalizing an agreement that would include an NBA-out clause in case the player receives an offer from the league.

At the moment, no further details of the deal have been revealed.

Azuolas Tubelis Reportedly Drawing EuroLeague Interest After Breakout Season with Zalgiris

Azuolas Tubelis has emerged as one of the few real breakout stories of this EuroLeague season, and his recent performance in Žalgiris Kaunas’ win over Fenerbahçe Beko in Game 3 was just the latest example of his two-way impact.

According to BasketNews, the former Arizona standout has attracted interest from several EuroLeague clubs despite being under contract with Zalgiris.

Tubelis signed a 2+1 deal last summer, with an NBA-only exit clause in 2026, meaning the Lithuanian club would hold strong leverage in any potential negotiations. Some league insiders reportedly estimate his buyout at around €1 million.

In his debut EuroLeague campaign, Tubelis is averaging 12 points and 4.5 rebounds in 22 minutes per game, while shooting an impressive 58% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 72% from the free-throw line.

Highly impressive numbers for a 24-year-old power forward in his firstEuroleague season.

Jimmy Clark III Reportedly Signing Extension with Maccabi Tel Aviv Through 2028

Jimmy Clark III has reached an agreement to extend his contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv through 2028.

The news was reported by Walla! Sports.

Clark III will earn around $2 million over the next two years, a significant increase compared to his current deal, which paid $450,000 this season and $550,000 for the next.

The point guard recently posted a 19-point, 11-assist double-double in a win over Hapoel Jerusalem and becomes the second key player retained by the Israeli club, following  Jaylen Hoard.

Clark III finished the EuroLeague season averaging 9.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 1.3 steals in 19 minutes per game.

Márcio Santos leaves Maccabi Tel Aviv to join LSU in NCAA

Márcio Santos will continue his career in the NCAA, as the South American player is leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv and has officially committed to LSU for next season.

The 23-year-old, 6-foot-9 forward stood out in EuroLeague with Maccabi, averaging 6.9 points in 14 minutes per game while shooting an impressive 40% from three-point range.

For coach Will Wade, Santos represents a major addition in terms of talent and upside. LSU could also add Saliou Niang, who has reportedly received a $7 million offer from the university for next season.

Mike James denies Barcelona commitment: “I ain’t committed nowhere”

Mike James has closed his European chapter with AS Monaco after a 3-0 playoff sweep against Olympiacos, but he denied having already committed to Barcelona or any other EuroLeague team.

Speaking to BasketNews, James said: “I ain’t committed nowhere.” He admitted that anything is possible as he enters free agency, but described the Barcelona and Xavi Pascual rumors as an easy connection rather than a finalized deal.

James also defended his Monaco legacy: five seasons, five playoff appearances, two Final Fours and one championship game. “I don’t know if anybody else could have come here and done what I did here,” he said. On legacy, he added: “I think legacy is stupid. I think people put too much stock in it.” For his future, James said he mainly wants “a chance to win.”

Xavi Pascual targeted by Dubai Basketball

Xavi Pascual has emerged as the top target for Dubai’s basketball project ahead of next season, according to Oscar Herreros. The Spanish coach, currently under contract with FC Barcelona after signing a deal last November, is reportedly at the top of the club’s shortlist to lead the team’s ambitious plans.

Pascual’s contract includes an exit clause, which could ease potential negotiations if Dubai decides to make a concrete move. Talks are not yet advanced, but the interest highlights Dubai’s intent to invest in an experienced, high-profile coach.

Anadolu Efes, Ioannis Sfairopoulos emerges as leading candidate for bench

Anadolu Efes could make a coaching change next season and are looking closely at the Greek coaching market.

According to Eurohoops, Ioannis Sfairopoulos is currently the leading candidate for the Turkish club’s bench and is already engaged in meaningful talks with the organization.

Vassilis Spanoulis remains an alternative option, while Pablo Laso is still under contract until 2027 after a disappointing EuroLeague season, with Efes finishing second to last at 12-26.

Source: Eurohoops

Maccabi Tel Aviv are pushing again to extend Iffe Lundberg’s contract

Maccabi Tel Aviv are pushing again to extend Iffe Lundberg’s contract. Just a few days after reports suggested that negotiations had broken down, the Israeli club has improved its offer, effectively reopening talks with the player’s camp, according to Tomer Givati.

The financial gap between the two sides is narrowing, increasing optimism about a potential agreement. Lundberg remains a key piece in Maccabi’s plans, and the club is eager to secure stability and talent in the backcourt ahead of next season.

A deal now appears closer than it did earlier this week.

PAOK target Nick Calathes, but contract clause delays agreement

PAOK are aiming high on the market and dreaming of signing Nick Calathes. After the arrival of Aristotelis Mystakidis and the agreement already reached with Andrea Trinchieri, the Greek club are working on their new roster.

According to Sport24, PAOK have offered the experienced Greek guard a very significant two-year contract. Calathes, currently with Partizan, will become a free agent at the end of the season.

However, no agreement has been reached yet. The issue is reportedly a special clause requested by PAOK. Partizan also remain in the race for a renewal, but at this stage the Thessaloniki club appear to have the edge.

Dan Oturu extends contract with Hapoel Tel Aviv

According to SDNA, Dan Oturu has agreed to extend his contract with Hapoel Tel Aviv, continuing his journey in Israel.

The American center impressed throughout the season with consistent performances in the paint, earning the trust of the organization. His extension is a key move for the club, which aims to maintain roster stability and remain competitive both domestically and in European competitions

Maccabi Tel Aviv in advanced talks to extend Jimmy Clark III

Maccabi Tel Aviv is in advanced negotiations to extend Jimmy Clark III’s contract, despite his current deal running through 2027, according to Tomer Givati.

The American guard has emerged as a key piece this season, attracting attention from other European clubs. Maccabi is eager to strengthen its commitment with the player and secure long-term stability.

The move reflects the club’s intention to build continuity around Clark as part of its core for the coming seasons.

Jonas Valanciunas draws EuroLeague interest, Zalgiris Kaunas among suitors

Jonas Valanciunas may return to Europe next season. According to BasketNews, several EuroLeague clubs are tracking the Lithuanian center, including Zalgiris Kaunas.

Valanciunas still has one year left on his contract with the Denver Nuggets, but the franchise can terminate the deal by July 8. If that happens, he would receive a $2 million compensation payment.

Zalgiris are looking for a new center, with Moses Wright expected to join Barcelona. Valanciunas, who turns 34 on May 6, spent the NBA season backing up Nikola Jokic, averaging 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in 13.4 minutes.

Source: BasketNews

Top Barcelona prospect Joaquim Boumtje-Boumtje commits to Duke University

Top Barcelona prospect Joaquim Boumtje-Boumtje is set to continue his career in the United States. The young talent has committed to Duke University and will play in the NCAA next season.

Widely regarded as one of the most promising players in Barça’s academy, Boumtje-Boumtje will now take on a new challenge in one of college basketball’s premier programs, aiming to further develop his game on a bigger stage.

Saliou Niang to Exit Virtus Bologna for NCAA Path, LSU and UNC in Pole Position

Saliou Niang is set to leave Virtus Bologna to test himself in the world of college basketball, marking the next step toward his NBA dream and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

According to Alessandro Maggi of Sportando, the player has already informed the club of his decision, with Virtus expected to receive a buyout fee that is still to be determined.

Two programs are currently leading the race to land the forward: LSU Tigers and North Carolina Tar Heels.

Niang is projected to be among the top 10 highest-paid NCAA basketball players next season.

The athletic forward was selected by the Cavaliers with the No.58 pick of the 2025 NBA Draft.

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