Basket rumors

06/05/202614:17

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.”

05/05/202620:51

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.

05/05/202615:31

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

03/05/202614:22

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.

02/05/202617:37

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.

01/05/202621:04

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

01/05/202620:54

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.

01/05/202612:23

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

30/04/202616:45

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.

29/04/202619:53

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.

29/04/202616:01

Malachi Flynn nearing Bahcesehir stay despite EuroLeague interest

Malachi Flynn could stay with Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul next season. According to BasketNews, the former NBA guard is close to remaining in Turkey despite drawing strong interest from multiple EuroLeague teams.

Flynn, 27, has been one of the top guards in Europe this season. In EuroCup, he averaged 17.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.7 steals, also earning All-EuroCup First Team honors.

The player recently obtained Turkish citizenship and is expected to represent the national team in upcoming FIBA competitions. Bahcesehir are now aiming to keep one of their main stars.

29/04/202615:39

Fran Fraschilla highlights Saliou Niang as NCAA name to monitor

The Saliou Niang-NCAA topic continues to grow. After reports of major college offers, ESPN’s Fran Fraschilla has also named the Virtus Bologna player as a prospect to monitor.

Fraschilla described Niang as a “defensive demon” forward, already selected in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He also pointed to his All-Defensive Team tools and high-octane motor.

The comment further confirms how the new NIL landscape is changing the balance between Europe, NCAA and the NBA. Niang could become one of the most important cases in this new phase of the talent market.

26/04/202610:43

Barcelona Leads Race for Alpha Diallo

According to Greek journalist Sotiris Vetakis, Barcelona is in a strong position to land Alpha Diallo for the upcoming season.

It would be a major signing for the Blaugrana, as the forward is widely regarded as one of the best players at his position in Europe and was recently named EuroLeague Best Defender.

Diallo, who is averaging 11.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in the EuroLeague, could also consider the NBA option.

At 28, in the prime of his career, the former Providence standout has little to envy compared to many players at his position who have carved out roles as rotation pieces in the League.

He would also bring with him the desire to compete at the highest level — a completely natural ambition after climbing every step of European basketball.

In recent days, Diallo has also been linked to other EuroLeague teams, including Hapoel Tel Aviv and Olympiacos.

25/04/202619:56

Maccabi Tel Aviv Secure Jaylen Hoard with Three-Year Extension

Maccabi Tel Aviv made a key move by locking in Jaylen Hoard with a new three-year deal.

The French forward had drawn strong interest from several EuroLeague clubs, but ultimately chose to continue his journey in Israel.

“I’m very excited to continue my journey with Maccabi Tel Aviv for another three years,” Hoard told the club’s official website. “My time here has been great and I want to keep improving every day, become a better player and help Maccabi win the Israeli league and the EuroLeague. I want to thank all my teammates, coaches, owners and management for their belief and support, and of course all Maccabi fans.”

Hoard, who led the EuroLeague in rebounds this season alongside Nikola Milutinov, is expected to be a cornerstone of the club’s new cycle under head coach Oded Kattash.

24/04/202615:26

Jankunas on Sylvain Francisco: “The first call came in mid-October”

Zalgiris Kaunas president Paulius Jankunas spoke openly about the future of Sylvain Francisco, one of the hottest names on the European market. As reported in Spain, Jankunas said: “I cannot give an exact date, but I think the first call came in mid-October. I would say clubs kept calling until New Year and the buyout offers kept increasing”.

The Lithuanian executive then explained how the club handled those approaches: “There were all kinds of attempts to convince us. Some arguments were even funny, others were serious conversations. But from the first call, our answer was clear: no, and absolutely not. This season we are not going to sell Sylvain through a contract buyout”. Those words made Zalgiris’s stance very clear as the club tried to keep its leader in place through the season.

Jankunas also admitted that Francisco’s main ambition lies beyond Europe: “We talk to him a lot. We know his plans very well, he really wants to try his luck in the NBA and see if he can play there. If you can say it like that, the ball is in his hands”. He then closed with the club’s position: “We are always ready to keep talking and we really want him to stay, because Sylvain is the leader of our team and a fundamental piece on which we build our system. Our desire is strong, but whether it becomes reality or not, I cannot say”.

23/04/202614:21

Partizan closing in on Kyle Allman, with Spanish reports calling the deal done

According to Serbian media reports citing Encestando, Kyle Allman is on track to become a new Partizan player. There is still no official public announcement from the Belgrade club, so the situation should be treated as a strong media report rather than a completed official signing.

The player’s profile fits the level. With Turk Telekom Ankara in 2025-26, Allman averaged 14.3 points and 3.6 assists per game in EuroCup and was named to the All-EuroCup First Team. Euroleague Basketball highlighted him as one of the key performers of the season and a major factor in Turk Telekom’s deep run.

Allman was also named EuroCup Quarterfinals MVP after posting 25 points and 8 assists against Hapoel Jerusalem. Able to play both on and off the ball, the 28-year-old American-born Montenegro international would give Partizan an experienced European backcourt piece, even though he has not yet played in the EuroLeague.

22/04/202619:59

Adama Sanogo Extends with Hapoel Holon Until 2028

Hapoel Holon has announced a contract extension for Adama Sanogo through 2028.

The 24-year-old big man joined the Israeli club in January following his departure from Trapani Shark. In the Winner League, Sanogo averaged 16 points and 9.2 rebounds, while in the Basketball Champions League he posted 17 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.

According to Tomer Givati, the former UConn standout signed a two-year deal worth around $850,000 total, making it one of the most lucrative contracts in the club’s history.

22/04/202616:41

Crvena Zvezda Belgrade identify potential replacement for Codi Miller-McIntyre

Crvena Zvezda may have already found the ideal replacement for Codi Miller-McIntyre, should he leave for Olympiacos.

According to BasketNews, the Serbian club has set its sights on Chris Jones of Hapoel Tel Aviv, who is considered the main candidate to join the red-and-white side in the event of Miller-McIntyre’s departure.

During this EuroLeague season, Jones has averaged 9.7 points and 4.2 assists per game with Hapoel Tel Aviv.

22/04/202614:56

New confirmations: Codi Miller-McIntyre closing in on Olympiacos

Olympiacos are getting closer and closer to reaching an agreement with Codi Miller-McIntyre, who is therefore expected to leave Crvena Zvezda at the end of the season.

Sport24 has confirmed what we reported a few weeks ago: negotiations between Olympiacos and the Red Star Belgrade point guard are at an advanced stage, with strong confidence that a deal will be finalized.

During this EuroLeague season, Miller-McIntyre has averaged 12.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game.

21/04/202620:18

Dubai Reportedly in Advanced Talks with Jaylen Hoard

According to Encestando, Dubai is in advanced negotiations with Jaylen Hoard.

The Maccabi Tel Aviv power forward finished the EuroLeague season averaging 11.1 points and 7.1 rebounds in 28 minutes per game.

Hoard has drawn interest from several teams, but Dubai is believed to have submitted the most lucrative offer so far.

It’s worth noting that the player remains under contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv, with an exit clause of around €600,000.

21/04/202617:35

Fenerbahce ready to secure two signings for next season

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul is preparing to defend its EuroLeague title in the playoffs set to begin next week, following the conclusion of the Play-In games, which tip off tonight.

According to Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, the Turkish club is also planning ahead, with two signings reportedly already lined up for next season. Ignas Sargiunas, currently playing for Rytas Vilnius, and Trent Forrest of Baskonia are said to have reached agreements with Fenerbahce.

Sargiunas averaged 12.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in the Basketball Champions League, while Forrest posted 10.9 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game in EuroLeague action this season.

20/04/202619:38

Daniele Baiesi: “I’m confident about Armoni Brooks’ renewal with Olimpia Milano”

Daniele Baiesi, guest on Area 52, also spoke about the ongoing contract extension talks involving Armoni Brooks. Here is the response from the sporting director of Olimpia Milano to Solaini and Marzagalia:

“That’s the million-dollar question. I can’t speak on behalf of Armoni Brooks. The player is in demand, and circumstances led me to start discussing the contract from January onward. In hindsight, that was a mistake, and I take full responsibility for it.

The dialogue has never stopped. My last conversation with the player’s American agent was last night. There is a willingness from the player to stay, and from Olimpia Milano to keep him.

I’m confident because the player has expressed positive feelings. However, he has to stay in Milan for the right reasons. If he were to leave for other offers, I would respect both the player and his decision, because a career span is limited.”

19/04/202611:09

Nadir Hifi: “My only option is the NBA”

Paris Basketball star Nadir Hifi has a clear vision for his future: he wants to test himself in the NBA.

“It’s no secret, I feel ready. I hope to get a chance as soon as this summer. I can no longer declare for the Draft, but I’m hoping for a free agent contract. It’s not entirely up to me — all I can do is keep proving my value on the court. I know I have strong interest in Europe as well, but I’m still under contract with Paris. In any case, right now my only option is the NBA.”

The guard finished the EuroLeague season averaging 18.9 points (41% FG, 35% 3PT, 84% FT) and 3.8 assists, while in the French league he is posting 19.8 points and 3.8 assists per game.

18/04/202616:15

Crvena Zvezda pushing strongly for Alessandro Pajola

The future of Alessandro Pajola could be away from Virtus Bologna. The Italian point guard has been the subject of several transfer rumors and, as we reported a few weeks ago, Crvena Zvezda has shown concrete interest in the player.

Further confirmations are now coming from abroad following Sportando’s report. Arel Ginsber shared on his social media accounts that the Serbian club is strongly pushing to reach an agreement with Pajola, who has emerged as a major transfer target for Crvena Zvezda.

18/04/202614:15

Fenerbahce has initiated contacts with Kevarrius Hayes

Fenerbahce could look to strengthen its center rotation ahead of next season and has reportedly set its sights on Kevarrius Hayes.

As we reported a few days ago, the player could leave Monaco during the upcoming summer and has drawn interest from several EuroLeague teams.

According to Sotiris Vetakis, Fenerbahce has already initiated contacts with Kevarrius Hayes in an attempt to reach an agreement for next season.

17/04/202614:46

Monaco, fresh setback for Nikola Mirotic: out with a calf injury

AS Monaco have announced that Nikola Mirotic is unavailable due to a calf injury, which will keep him out for an indefinite period. The update came directly from the club through its official channels.

It is another physical setback for the former Barcelona and Olimpia Milano star, who had already been dealing with injury issues in recent weeks. For Monaco, it is a significant loss because it comes at a key point in the European season and further limits the team’s frontcourt options.

In the 2025-26 EuroLeague, Mirotic had been averaging 11.0 points and 4.3 rebounds in 31 games, while shooting 39.3% from three-point range. Those numbers underline his importance in Monaco’s rotation, even in a season that has already been heavily affected by injuries. The club has not yet provided a recovery timeline.

17/04/202614:23

Dubai Basket in talks with Mario Hezonja

Mario Hezonja’s future is heading toward Dubai. According to reports reaching Sportando in recent hours, the Croatian forward would like to continue his career with the Emirati club.

Mario Hezonja’s situation is complex—and delicate. The 1995-born player from Dubrovnik signed a five-year contract with Real Madrid in 2024, worth around $2.5 million per season.

All of this includes an NBA opt-out clause, an opportunity that neither the player nor his new agent, Misko Raznatovic, has ever ruled out. However, Dubai Basketball is reportedly ready to make a major investment, negotiating directly with Real Madrid as well.

This could lead to a sensational deal that might become a reality in the coming weeks. Mario Hezonja would sign a new three-year contract with Dubai Basketball, with terms that would place him around third in EuroLeague salaries, on par with Sasha Vezenkov at Olympiacos.

At the United Arab Emirates club, which promises to be among the most ambitious next season, Mario Hezonja would be reunited with Dzanan Musa, among others, with whom he won the continental title in Madrid in 2023.

17/04/202608:29

Olimpia Milano dream of Simone Fontecchio: deal opens only if NBA market cools down

Olimpia Milano are working on an ambitious market idea for next season: Simone Fontecchio. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian forward is the club’s biggest dream as it looks to raise the quality of the roster, but the move can only become realistic under one condition: that neither the Heat nor other NBA teams make him an offer strong enough to keep him in the league.

Fontecchio has just finished the season with Miami and will enter free agency this summer. Reports say his priority is still to remain in the NBA, with at least other franchises showing interest and his recent salary level — around $8 million gross per year — still setting the benchmark. That is the key point: Milano cannot compete with the top NBA range, but they could become a real option if the U.S. market softens or if Fontecchio starts considering a different kind of choice, more personal than technical.

At the same time, Milano are also evaluating other targets. Darius Thompson remains appreciated for the point guard role, while Alessandro Pajola is another name mentioned, although he is officially under contract with Virtus Bologna through 2026. The true dream, however, remains Fontecchio: a difficult path for now, not yet really open, but one Milano want to be ready to pursue if the picture changes in July.

16/04/202620:51

Hapoel Tel Aviv interested in Zach LeDay

Hapoel Tel Aviv could look to strengthen its frontcourt by targeting Zach LeDay during the 2026 summer transfer window. The report comes from MozzartSport and was later echoed by Sport5, which cited their previous information.

According to the report: “Signing LeDay would be quite straightforward, as his second stint with EA7 Emporio Armani is set to expire in June, making him a free agent. He also appears to be open to a move.

Given that Hapoel is searching for a high-quality player at the power forward position, there is little doubt they could reach an agreement with LeDay, with whom they have already been in contact.”

14/04/202620:49

Quinn Ellis Commits to St. John’s for 2026/27 Season

According to Zach Braziller of the New York Post, Quinn Ellis will spend the 2026/27 season with St. John’s, learning under legendary head coach Rick Pitino.

The Red Storm beat competition from several major programs, including Duke Blue Devils, BYU Cougars, Louisville Cardinals, Houston Cougars, and Kentucky Wildcats.

Ellis made his EuroLeague debut this season with Olimpia Milano, averaging 8.4 points and 4.4 assists in 25 minutes per game.

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