Basket rumors

21/01/202615:01

Brian Angola set to join ASVEL Villeurbanne and return to EuroLeague

Brian Angola is expected to continue his career in the EuroLeague with ASVEL Villeurbanne. According to SDNA, the 32-year-old is set to relocate to France and sign with the Lyon-Villeurbanne club.

This season, Angola played for Gran Canaria, averaging 8.8 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 19.5 minutes across 15 league games. In six BCL appearances, he posted 13.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 19.7 minutes.

Angola’s resume includes stops at Ostenda, Partizan, Ness Ziona, AEK, Galatasaray, Karşıyaka, Hapoel Tel Aviv and Türk Telekom, after his college run at Florida State.

Fonte: SDNA

20/01/202617:22

Andreas Obst EuroLeague market jewel, Bayern Munich at risk of losing him this summer

Andreas Obst could change teams over the next summer. The Bayern Munich sharpshooter is expected, according to Basketnews, to seek the most lucrative contract of his career after an excellent season so far.

Reports suggest that Bayern Munich is at serious risk of losing the German player, who is reportedly attracting interest from several EuroLeague teams, as his contract is set to expire.

Obst’s summer contract could easily exceed €1.5 million per season. This season, he is averaging 14.2 points per game, shooting 40.3% from beyond the arc.

20/01/202617:05

NBA Europe: Manchester still considered, City and United unlikely to be involved

NBA Europe continues its search for agreements with clubs from major European markets with strong global recognition in football. Manchester is undoubtedly a key city for the new project backed by the league overseen by Adam Silver, who would welcome the presence of a franchise in Manchester with the support of either City or United.

According to Frank Dallers of City AM, Manchester could still become part of the NBA Europe project, albeit without the involvement of Manchester City or Manchester United.

Ben Pierson, chairman of Manchester’s current Super League Basketball team, told City AM: “The Sherwood group have been in discussions with JPMorgan and the NBA since the very beginning of the process. We have the financial resources to submit a bid independently, if it makes sense. But we have also been approached by several groups who understand that we are the operating company in the city. If you are a basketball team branded in blue, you lose half the city because Manchester United fans won’t attend your games.”

According to BBC Sport, neither Manchester City nor Manchester United have shown interest in joining the NBA Europe project.

20/01/202616:02

Joventut Badalona extend Henri Drell Until End of June

Club Joventut Badalona have officially exercised their option to extend the contract of Henri Drell, keeping the Estonian forward with the club until June 30, 2026.

Drell joined Joventut last September on a temporary deal, which was later renewed through January 2026. His seamless adaptation to the team and consistent performances have now earned him a further extension, ensuring he will finish the season with the Penya.

The Estonian has appeared in 22 official games for Joventut and is currently enjoying the best statistical season of his professional career in the Liga ACB. Thanks to his versatility — capable of playing both at the forward (3) and power forward (4) positions — Drell will continue to be an important tactical asset for the Badalona side.

17/01/202622:09

Gran Canaria reportedly signs Kassius Robertson

Gran Canaria signs Kassius Robertson. Chema de Lucas reports from Spain.

The Canadian guard, born in 1994, started the season with Kuban, averaging 8.3 points in the VTB.

16/01/202622:27

Ataman reacts harshly to Bayern Munich loss, orders punitive practice for Panathinaikos

Panathinaikos suffered a tough defeat in the EuroLeague matchup against Bayern Munich, and head coach Ergin Ataman did not let his players off the hook.

According to SDNA, the Greens’ coach took the team straight to OAKA after returning to Athens for a video session reviewing the game against Bayern, followed by a “punitive” practice.

Kendrick Nunn, Dinos Mitoglou, and Nikos Rogkavopoulos did not take part in the practice due to their respective injuries.

14/01/202619:25

Jacob Gilyard joins Gravelines-Dunkerque

Shortly after parting ways with Cantù, point guard Jacob Gilyard has signed with Gravelines-Dunkerque on a deal through the end of the season.

Gilyard wrapped up his stint in LBA averaging 10.3 points, 5.9 assists and 1.4 steals per game, while shooting 36% from the field.

 

14/01/202616:48

Ja Morant Breaks Silence on Trade Rumors: “I Have to Live With It”

Ja Morant offered brief but telling comments about his future with the Memphis Grizzlies, acknowledging ongoing trade speculation and admitting that it is something he simply has to accept.

Speaking to reporters during Memphis’ European trip, Morant responded cautiously to questions about potential trade talks, saying that he has to “live with it.” According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Grizzlies are entertaining trade offers for Morant for the first time since he became the franchise cornerstone. Multiple teams are monitoring the situation, with rival executives believing Memphis would prioritize draft picks and young players in any potential deal.

Return still uncertain amid injuries

Morant said Wednesday that he will “hopefully” play this week in Europe, as the Grizzlies face the Orlando Magic in Berlin and London. If he does, it would mark his first game action since January 2. During practice, Morant was seen in an animated exchange with teammate Vince Williams Jr., highlighting the intensity surrounding the team amid the rumors.

The 26-year-old guard has missed five consecutive games due to a right calf contusion and has appeared in only 18 games this season overall. His limited availability has been caused by a series of injuries, as well as a one-game suspension following a postgame exchange with head coach Tuomas Iisalo in November.

Contract situation adds another layer

Morant remains under contract with Memphis through the 2027–28 season, but his long-term future is far from settled. He is eligible this summer to sign an extension worth up to three years and $178 million, a decision that could heavily influence both the Grizzlies’ strategy and the league-wide trade market.

For now, Morant is focused on returning to the court. But with Memphis openly listening to offers, his short answer says it all: the uncertainty is real, and he knows he has to live with it.

14/01/202616:15

From Spain | Real Madrid close to joining NBA Europe

The balance of power in European basketball is approaching a decisive moment. With key strategic decisions looming, the long-running tension between the EuroLeague and the NBA is intensifying as the American league prepares to launch a new European competition in 2027.

According to AS, Real Madrid are determined to accept the NBA’s proposal and leave the EuroLeague to join what is provisionally known as NBA Europe. While no contract has yet been signed, talks between the club and the NBA are advanced and ongoing. The alliance, if completed, would dramatically alter the European basketball landscape.

NBA Europe: a new map for continental basketball

Taking advantage of NBA regular-season games scheduled in Europe, the league has held meetings with investors and potential partner clubs to outline the structure of the new competition. The plan foresees a 16-team league: 12 permanent license holders and four teams qualifying each season.

Real Madrid are not only among the invitees — they are viewed as the flagship club of the project. The NBA also aims to expand into football-centric cities with limited basketball tradition, such as Rome, Manchester and Paris (via PSG), while targeting major markets like London and Berlin. Conversely, traditional basketball strongholds such as Greece and Serbia would likely play a reduced role.

The project is being developed in collaboration with FIBA, which has been in open conflict with the EuroLeague for control of European basketball for nearly a decade. This alignment would allow FIBA to keep the Basketball Champions League relevant, with its champion potentially qualifying for NBA Europe, presenting the new league as less closed than the EuroLeague.

EuroLeague’s counter-move and the clubs’ divide

In parallel, the EuroLeague has been working with its shareholder clubs on a long-term framework covering 2026–2036, following the signing of a major commercial deal. An informal deadline of January 15 was set for clubs to confirm their commitment.

Several teams have already signed 10-year agreements, including Baskonia, Anadolu Efes, Bayern Munich, Žalgiris, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Olimpia Milano, Panathinaikos, Olympiacos and CSKA Moscow (despite their suspension due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine).

Attention has focused on four undecided clubs: FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Fenerbahçe and ASVEL. Barcelona have opted to stay with the EuroLeague for now, though with an exit clause. Fenerbahçe and Real Madrid are more inclined toward the NBA project, while ASVEL — long linked to the NBA through club president Tony Parker — are reconsidering and may yet renew with the EuroLeague.

A historic shift on the horizon

For Real Madrid, the potential move represents not only a sporting revolution but also a fundamental business shift. Financial structure, global exposure and long-term growth are at the heart of the NBA proposal, which the club is analyzing in detail. Despite the lack of formal signatures, the intention in Madrid is clear: to cross over — and to lead the new era of European basketball.

For now, the tug of war between NBA and EuroLeague remains open. But the next few months could define the continent’s basketball future for decades to come.

14/01/202612:03

Promitheas replace Paulicup with Grant Golden: ex-AEK big man returns to Greece from Manresa

Promitheas are set to cover the departure of Paul Paulicup to Manresa by bringing in a familiar name: Grant Golden.
The text says coach Kouro Segkoura’s team identified the former AEK big man, who had been playing in Manresa, as the chosen replacement.

The move is portrayed as an informal swap between the two clubs, with Golden having appeared in 15 Liga Endesa games.
In Spain’s top league, he posted 7.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

In EuroCup with Manresa, Golden averaged 8.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists across 13 games in 16:53 per game.
The report also recalls his 2024-25 season with AEK in the Basketball Champions League: 10.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists over 17 games.

13/01/202620:32

Torrey Craig Close to Joining Sydney Kings for Remainder of NBL Season

Torrey Craig is in advanced negotiations to sign with the Sydney Kings for the remainder of the 2025–26 NBL season, sources told ESPN.

Craig is expected to join the Kings as a replacement for Bul Kuol, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury earlier this month. The Kings must register a new player before their January 15 game against the Brisbane Bullets to meet league requirements, making Craig’s signing imminent.

The 35-year-old forward has significant experience in Australia, having played three NBL seasons between 2014 and 2017 with the Cairns Taipans and Brisbane. During the 2016–17 campaign, Craig averaged 15.2 points per game and was named NBL Best Defensive Player.

Craig later built a strong NBA career, appearing in 458 games across eight seasons with the Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Phoenix Suns, Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls, and Boston Celtics. His most productive NBA season came in 2022–23 with Phoenix, where he averaged 7.4 points and 5.4 rebounds, shooting 39.5% from three-point range.

To be eligible for the NBL playoffs, Craig must appear in seven regular-season games, meaning he would need to suit up by the Kings’ January 25 matchup against the Adelaide 36ers.

Coached by Brian Goorjian, the Kings currently sit third on the NBL ladder at 15–9, having won eight of their last ten games.

13/01/202620:27

Petkimspor Sign Jaylon Brown

Aliağa Petkimspor have completed the signing of Jaylon Brown, adding the American guard to their roster.

Born in 1994 and standing 1.83 meters tall, Brown is well known in Turkish basketball for his previous stints with Pınar Karşıyaka and Bursaspor. He most recently played in China with the Liaoning Flying Leopards, before returning to Turkey for a new chapter with Petkimspor.

13/01/202620:23

Ben Bentil Signs with Formosa Dreamers, Heads to Taiwan

Ben Bentil has officially signed in Taiwan, reaching an agreement with the Formosa Dreamers. It marks a new chapter — and a third experience in Asia — for the 30-year-old forward, who will compete in a championship he has never played in before.

Bentil’s career path has been uneven in recent months. After a brief and low-profile stint with ASVEL, the Ghanaian big man joined Mersin last summer in an attempt to relaunch his career in the Basketball Champions League.

That experience, however, ended prematurely, forcing Bentil to look for a new opportunity. Taiwan now represents a fresh start, as he aims to regain continuity and confidence in a new environment.

13/01/202620:09

Slovenia Extends Aleksander Sekulić as Men’s National Team Head Coach

The Executive Board of the Basketball Federation of Slovenia has unanimously approved the proposal to extend Aleksander Sekulić as head coach of the Slovenian men’s national team for the next two years.

The decision confirms Sekulić in the role until the end of 2027, representing his fourth mandate on the bench of the national team. Appointed head coach in November 2020, he has since become the longest-serving coach in the history of Slovenia’s senior men’s program.

Sekulić first joined the national team staff in 2006 and served primarily as an assistant coach until 2020. As head coach, he has led Slovenia to all three major international competitions: the Olympic Games (Tokyo 2021), the FIBA World Cup (2023), and two EuroBasket tournaments (2022 and 2025).

Together with his staff, Sekulić will soon reconvene the national team as qualification games for the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar resume. Slovenia has already opened the qualifying campaign with a narrow overtime loss to Estonia and a win over Sweden, with upcoming games against Czechia, Estonia, and Sweden scheduled over the next qualification windows.

13/01/202620:05

Fenerbahçe Beko Extend Head Coach Šarūnas Jasikevičius on a Three-Year Deal

Fenerbahçe Beko have officially reached a three-year agreement with head coach Šarūnas Jasikevičius, securing the future of one of the key figures behind the club’s recent historic successes.

The extension underlines Fenerbahçe’s ambition to continue competing at the highest level, with Jasikevičius remaining at the helm of a team pursuing major goals both domestically and in European competitions.

The club expressed its best wishes for a successful partnership moving forward, hoping the new deal will bring further victories and championships in the coming seasons.

12/01/202619:06

EuroLeague ready for a legal battle with NBA Europe?

Important rumors are emerging regarding the creation of NBA Europe, a European basketball league managed by the NBA. According to Aris Barkas of Eurohoops, a legal battle between the two organizations could be on the horizon.

As reported, EuroLeague would be ready to initiate legal action against the NBA for having opened talks with clubs that had already committed to a ten-year agreement with EuroLeague.

12/01/202616:23

Bruno Caboclo nearing Hapoel exit: Dubai emerging as frontrunner

Caboclo is closing in on his next move as his departure from Hapoel Tel Aviv gets closer, with Dubai Basketball viewed as the top option.
Sources say there’s interest across multiple markets, but Dubai has moved to the front.

The move is tied to Sertaç Şanlı nearing an exit from Dubai, opening a spot for Caboclo in the frontcourt.
Because he hasn’t been registered in the EuroLeague, Caboclo remains eligible for an in-season switch even after Jan. 5.

The 30-year-old has not played a EuroLeague or Israeli league game this season due to health issues.
He last featured for Brazil at the 2025 FIBA AmeriCup (gold, All-Star Five) after averaging 7.4 points and 3.7 rebounds for Hapoel in last season’s EuroCup.

12/01/202616:21

Sertaç Şanlı set for Beşiktaş reunion as talks near completion

Beşiktaş have reached the final stages of negotiations to bring Sertaç Şanlı back to Istanbul, with an announcement expected soon.
The 34-year-old center would move from EuroLeague side Dubai to the club’s EuroCup and domestic rosters.

Finalizing the transfer before Tuesday’s EuroCup registration deadline would keep Şanlı eligible for the rest of the season.
In EuroLeague play, he has averaged 2.4 points and 1.0 rebounds across seven bench appearances.

Source Eurohoops

11/01/202615:29

London Lions adds Chaundee Brown Jr. and Nigel Hawkins

The London Lions have announced the arrivals of Chaundee Brown Jr. and Nigel Hawkins.

Brown Jr started the season with the New Taipei Kings, while Hawkins was playing in Cyprus with Anorthosis Ammohostou  – 22.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3 assist in FIBA Europe Cup-.

 

11/01/202615:12

Besiktas sign Matt Thomas

Matt Thomas is a new Besiktas player, as announced by the Turkish club.

The guard exercised the opt-out clause in his contract with Coviran Granada, where he was averaging 14.6 points per game while shooting an excellent 46% from three-point range.

11/01/202614:15

Galatasaray add John Petrucelli to the backcourt

Galatasaray strengthened their perimeter with the signing of John Petrucelli.

The 33-year-old guard has agreed to a deal through the end of the season.

Petrucelli arrives after a season and a half with Trapani Shark, where he was averaging 9.9 points and 3 assists per game in LBA, along with 6.2 points, 2.4 assists and 2 steals per game in the Basketball Champions League.

 

10/01/202614:31

UCAM Murcia Sign Forward Kelan Martin Through the End of the Season

UCAM Murcia CB have officially announced the signing of Kelan Martin, a power forward known for his ability to stretch the floor, reliable shooting range, scoring instincts, and rebounding presence.

Martin’s versatility allows him to be effective both on the perimeter and attacking from inside positions, giving the coaching staff additional tactical options on both ends of the floor.

Over the past two seasons, Martin has played in Turkey with Pınar Karşıyaka and Beşiktaş, posting overall averages of 11 points per game while shooting an impressive 45% from three-point range.

On an individual level, one of his standout performances came on January 5, 2025, when he scored 32 points against Anadolu Efes, showcasing his ability to take on a major offensive role against elite European competition.

With Martin’s arrival, UCAM Murcia add an experienced, versatile forward with strong outside shooting, strengthening the rotation at the power forward position.

Martin has signed through the end of the season and will occupy a non-EU roster spot.

09/01/202621:46

JL Bourg Strengthen Backcourt With Veteran Point Guard Will Cherry

As the season enters its decisive phase, JL Bourg have added experience to their backcourt by signing veteran point guard Will Cherry.

The 1.87-meter American guard arrives after a productive season with Cocodrilos de Caracas, where he made a strong all-around impact, averaging 13.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.

Cherry brings a truly global résumé. He was developed at the University of Montana, where he earned recognition as the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year before turning professional. In early 2014, he joined the NBA D-League, continuing to impress with averages of 11.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.

His performances led to a brief but valuable NBA stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers, providing experience at the highest level. He later finished that season in Europe with Žalgiris Kaunas, marking the start of an extensive European career.

Over the years, Cherry has represented several high-profile clubs, including ALBA Berlin, Gaziantep, Zagreb, and Olympiacos Piraeus, earning multiple domestic titles and building a strong reputation across Europe. During the past two seasons, he has also played in Asian and Middle Eastern leagues, once again contributing to team success.

Having competed in numerous countries and leagues, Cherry brings adaptability and a deep understanding of different playing styles. With JL Bourg recently securing qualification for the postseason, his arrival is seen as a key addition for the final stretch of the campaign.

Cherry is expected to join the team next week and remain with the club until the end of February.

09/01/202621:35

Tonye Jekiri: “I Chose Partizan Over Efes”

The newest addition to Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, Nigerian center Tonye Jekiri, was signed to strengthen Partizan’s frontcourt following the departure of Tyrique Jones, who recently joined Olympiacos Piraeus. However, the Nigerian big man revealed that Partizan was not his only option for a EuroLeague return.

Speaking on Thursday ahead of the matchup with Barcelona, Jekiri confirmed that he had also been in talks with Anadolu Efes Istanbul before making his decision.

“It was a choice between them (Partizan) and Efes, whom I also talked to,” Jekiri said via Meridian Sport. “Coming here is great; this is a big club that loves to win. I knew some guys on the team and thought it would be easy for me to fit in.”

The 31-year-old also underlined how important returning to the EuroLeague was for him.

“I really wanted to return to the EuroLeague. I missed it. I think I still have something to offer,” he added. “Partizan is a big club with amazing fans. When I saw the message from my agent, I was happy.”

Jekiri brings previous EuroLeague experience, having played for Fenerbahçe Istanbul during the 2022–23 season before stepping away from the competition. News was reported by Basketnews.

09/01/202621:29

Jan Vesely on His Bond With Belgrade and Partizan: “If I Ever Return, I’ll Get a Serbian Passport”

Jan Vesely, veteran big man of FC Barcelona, recently reflected on his deep personal and professional connection to Belgrade and his former club Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade.

Speaking to Meridian Sport, Vesely revealed that his ties to the Serbian capital go far beyond basketball.

“I was baptized in Belgrade. I did everything, just missing the passport to become Serbian,” Vesely said. “I could do it, but I never rushed. Probably if I returned to Partizan, the first thing I’d do is get the passport.”

The Czech big man revisited his formative years with Partizan, recalling the intensity of daily training, demanding practices, and the influence of legendary coaches such as Željko Obradović. Vesely highlighted how the balance between criticism and praise helped shape his mentality and prepare him for elite-level basketball.

“The season didn’t stop. Life didn’t stop. Other players were there,” Vesely added. “Some people may disagree, but you have to play to the end,” reflecting on the professional mindset he developed in Belgrade.

Vesely also spoke about young players who remind him of his own early days, mentioning Nikola Kusturica as a talented and hardworking prospect with a similar mentality.

While fully focused on his current career, Vesely’s words underline a bond with Partizan and Belgrade that remains strong. This season in the EuroLeague, Vesely is averaging 8.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game.

“He always gives 100%, even when he’s dead tired, because he knows he has to,” Vesely concluded. “He has some of our old mentality.”

07/01/202621:50

Cedevita Olimpija sign Matthew Hurt through the end of the season

Cedevita Olimpija announced the signing of Matthew Hurt on a deal running through the end of the season.

The 25-year-old power forward officially leaves Trapani Shark after 18 games, during which he averaged 8.8 points and 3.3 rebounds in LBA, along with 12.5 points on 63% shooting from the field and 4.5 rebounds per game in the Basketball Champions League.

Hurt had initially been expected to join Tofas Bursa.

“I’m really excited to become part of Cedevita Olimpija,” Hurt said. “I’ve heard nothing but great things about the team and the city. I can’t wait to contribute to such a strong team and I’m looking forward to meeting the fans soon.”

06/01/202619:13

Chris Chiozza joins Acqua S.Bernardo Cantù

Acqua S.Bernardo Cantù officially announced the signing of Chris Chiozza.

The point guard began the season in Turkey with Pinar Karsiyaka, where he was averaging 6.0 points, 6.2 assists and 1.4 steals in 26 minutes per game.

Chiozza signed a deal until the end of the 2025/26 season.

05/01/202617:03

Partizan: Duane Washington to stay in Belgrade despite two EuroLeague offers

Duane Washington is set to stay in Belgrade and continue with Partizan in the black-and-white jersey.
The report says two lucrative EuroLeague offers were on the table, but he opted for continuity.

Washington has reportedly communicated his decision officially to both his agent and the club.
As a result, no change of environment is expected at this stage of the season.

The player believes he still has more to show with Partizan.
That is why, according to the same sources, he was not willing to move right now.

05/01/202614:17

Panathinaikos: Giannakopoulos hints at a “bomb” signing, «I’m trying to complete a major transfer»

Speaking during a late-night Instagram live, Dimitris Giannakopoulos answered questions from Panathinaikos fans.
The club’s leading figure said he is pushing to finalize a top-level move.

«I’m trying to complete a big transfer. A bomb», Giannakopoulos said during the live session.
He then pointed to the drive to win in Europe with an emphatic example.

«I would bring Jordan at 29 if needed, just to win the EuroLeague», he added.
The comments have fueled speculation about a potentially high-profile addition.

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