Basket rumors

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.

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.

 

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

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.

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.

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.

Trapani Shark: Matthew Hurt set for Tofas Bursa, short-handed for BCL play-in

A deal is in place for Matthew Hurt to join Tofas Bursa, with the 2000-born forward set to continue the season in Turkey.
He will not be available for Trapani’s Game 1 of the BCL play-in, with the team facing Hapoel Holon.

Coach Latini is expected to have a very limited rotation, with only six players plus young prospect Patti.
The available group is listed as Cappelletti, Rossato, Arcidiacono, Pugliatti, Sanogo and Notae, with Notae mentioned as hurt after the game vs Varese.

Hurt leaves after a strong start: 8.8 points and 3.3 rebounds in 19.6 minutes in the league, shooting 38.5% from three.
In the Champions League he averaged 12.5 points and 4.5 rebounds over six games, and he has reportedly agreed terms with Tofas, currently eighth in the BSL.

Source: PianetaBasket e Superbasket

Hapoel Tel Aviv: Caboclo out of plans, CSKA Moscow seen as frontrunner

Bruno Caboclo has reportedly been told by Hapoel Tel Aviv that he is not expected to have a major role for the rest of the season.
The Brazilian big man, however, wants to fight for his place and stay in the picture.

Hapoel are now looking for a landing spot, and European reports point to CSKA Moscow as the top candidate to add him.
AEK Athens and PAOK Thessaloniki are also mentioned as interested parties, but the Russians are currently leading.

Caboclo has not played this season while recovering from an injury and is on a net $120,000-per-month contract.

Source: Sport5

Partizan: no more exits planned after Tyrique Jones, Parker and Brown set to stay

Partizan Mozzart Bet removed Tyrique Jones from their EuroLeague registered list ahead of the January 5 deadline, clearing the way for his move to Olympiacos. As reported by Mozzart, no additional departures are currently expected.

Despite speculation of major changes following Željko Obradović’s exit, the only confirmed outgoing is Jones, seen as a situation that could not continue.

That means Jabari Parker, Sterling Brown, Shake Milton, and Duane Washington are all set to remain under their existing contracts.

Partizan are now waiting to bring in another big, with the frontcourt currently thin and Bruno Fernando as the main option.

Against Monaco and Barcelona in EuroLeague, increased minutes are expected for Dylan Osetkowski and Parker, who is said to be showing signs of improvement.

Aris Betsson land Kostas Antetokounmpo on loan from Olympiacos

Olympiacos have officially announced the signing of Tyrique Jones, who agreed to a 2.5-year contract.
After the deal was completed, a corresponding move regarding the frontcourt was put in place.

Kostas Antetokounmpo will continue his career in Thessaloniki, joining Aris Betsson on a loan deal.
The move comes in the aftermath of Olympiacos adding the American big man.

As a result, Giorgos Bartzokas will have three centers available going forward.
Those are Nikola Milutinov, Donta Hall, and Tyrique Jones.

Source: Sport24

BC Rytas bring back Speedy Smith, sign Jordan Caroline

BC Rytas strengthen the roster with the return of Kenneth “Speedy” Smith and the signing of Jordan Caroline.

The point guard, who previously played for the Lithuanian club in the 2021/22 season, arrives from Merkezefendi, where he was averaging 7.4 points and 4 assists per game in the Turkish BSL.

Caroline began the season in France with Saint-Quentin, posting 10.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game in BetClic Elite.

Hapoel Tel Aviv Owner Ofer Yannay Criticizes Israeli Federation Over Malachi Flynn Case

Ofer Yannay, owner of Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv, has once again publicly criticized the Israeli Basketball Federation, this time following reports regarding Malachi Flynn and his potential future with the Turkey national team.

After news emerged that Turkey is planning to naturalize Flynn, Yannay reacted on X with a blunt message:
“Israeli Federation is still napping.”

The remark fits a familiar pattern. Yannay has repeatedly voiced frustration with how the Israeli federation has handled the naturalization process in recent years, often referencing past situations such as Khadeen Carrington. In Yannay’s view, Israel failed to move decisively enough to secure a high-level naturalized player who could elevate the national team.

While criticism surrounds the Israeli side, Turkey appears ready to act. According to Umit Avci, Flynn is expected to become the next naturalized player for the Turkish national team. The report was revealed on the Fast Break show on Sports TV in Turkey on the first day of 2026.

If finalized, Flynn would follow a well-established tradition of naturalized guards representing Turkey, including Bobby Dixon, Scottie Wilbekin, and Shane Larkin, all of whom played major roles for the national team in recent years.

This season in the EuroCup, Flynn is averaging 18.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, while shooting 47.8% from the field, strengthening his case as a high-impact international option.

Virtus Bologna Close to Signing Young Prospect Francesco Ferrari

Virtus Bologna are set to announce an agreement with Francesco Ferrari, a 2005-born Italian prospect regarded as one of the most promising young players in the country.

The news was reported by Fabrizio Lorenzi in La Repubblica (Milan edition). Ferrari developed at College Borgomanero and gained national attention after winning the Next Gen Tournament, where he was also named MVP while playing for Olimpia Milano.

Over the past two seasons, Ferrari has been a key figure for Cividale in Serie A2, establishing himself as a consistent and reliable contributor at the professional level.

The 19-year-old guard is expected to become available to Virtus Bologna starting January 26, strengthening the club’s roster for the second half of the season.

Aleksej Pokusevski: “I Want to Stay at Partizan for as Long as Possible”

After returning to Europe as one of the most intriguing talents produced by European basketball in recent years, Aleksej Pokusevski is now looking for continuity, growth, and a bigger role — all in the jersey he feels most connected to: Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade.

Pokusevski has shown flashes of his unique skill set since coming back from the NBA, but the Serbian forward made it clear that his ambitions go beyond occasional highlights.

“I still have another year on my contract, but with certain options,” Pokusevski told Meridian Sports. “I would like to play for Partizan as long as possible. To be a local player who helps the club achieve success, and for me to have a nice role.”

While expressing his desire to remain in Belgrade, Pokusevski acknowledged that his future is not entirely in his own hands.

“Whether all of that will happen, I don’t know,” he admitted. “It doesn’t all depend on me, but on the club.”

What does depend on him, however, is his daily commitment. Pokusevski emphasized work ethic and consistency as the foundation of his approach.

“Only through work and daily dedication can something be achieved. You can ask anyone at Partizan — the truth is that I work as hard as possible,” he said. “For me, it’s simple: I go into the gym, train, and play at the maximum. And when I get a chance, I have to take advantage of it.”

Hapoel Tel Aviv Open to Parting Ways With Bruno Caboclo

Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv have reportedly informed Bruno Caboclo that he is no longer part of the club’s plans for the remainder of the season, according to Sport5.

On Wednesday, Hapoel contacted the Brazilian forward to discuss the possibility of a contract termination. Such a move would allow Caboclo to sign with another EuroLeague team even after the January 5 transfer deadline between EuroLeague clubs.

If an agreement is reached, Caboclo would be eligible to join a new EuroLeague team until February 23, with Hapoel reportedly pushing to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

Caboclo has yet to make an appearance this season after undergoing back surgery during the summer. While he is currently working toward full recovery, sources close to the player say he would prefer to remain with Hapoel Tel Aviv and compete for a role once fully fit.

The 28-year-old brings solid European experience, having played in both the EuroLeague and EuroCup. Last season with Hapoel in the EuroCup, Caboclo averaged 7.4 points and 3.7 rebounds in 17.4 minutes per game.

Previously, during the 2023–24 EuroLeague season with Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, he recorded 9.4 points and 4.0 rebounds in 19.4 minutes per contest.

Turkey to Naturalize Malachi Flynn to Bolster National Team Backcourt?

According to reporter Umit Avci, the Turkish Basketball Federation has decided to naturalize point guard Malachi Flynn in order to address the recurring injury issues of Shane Larkin and Scottie Wilbekin.

A product of San Diego State University, Flynn is best known for his historic 50-point performance in an NBA game. This past summer, he chose to begin his European career by signing with Bahçeşehir Koleji.

Flynn is currently averaging 17.6 points, 5.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game in the Turkish BSL, while posting 18.2 points, 4.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per contest in the EuroCup. He is shooting 37% from three-point range on nearly seven attempts per game across competitions.

The guard could be available for selection as early as the upcoming national team windows scheduled for February and March, should the naturalization process be completed in time.

Jordan Ford officially leaves Trapani Shark to join Bahcesehir

Jordan Ford has officially parted ways with Trapani Shark to join Turkish side Bahcesehir.

The  former Saint Mary’s guard was averaging 13.3 points and 4.3 assists in 26 minutes per game across LBA and Basketball Champions League play.

Ford returns to the EuroCup, where last season he put up 16.4 points per game on excellent shooting splits while playing for Trento.

 

Russ Smith joins Ruvo di Puglia

Crifo Wines Ruvo di Puglia welcome the new year with the signing of Russ Smith.

The experienced American guard returns to the Italian Serie A2 after three seasons with Nardò, the last one with 23.4 points in 28 minutes per game.

Smith will replace Aanen Moody, who was released on December 31.

Maccabi Tel Aviv joins Olympiacos in the race for Tyrique Jones

Tyrique Jones’ future continues to draw significant attention, with the big man expected to leave Partizan after a season and a half.

In addition to Olympiacos, Maccabi Tel Aviv also reportedly entered the race for the former Xavier center in recent hours.

According to reports, the Reds offered Partizan a €400,000 buyout, along with a contract worth a total of €2.5 million through 2027 for Jones.

According to Sports.co.il, Jones would prefer Maccabi Tel Aviv due to the opportunity to play as the team’s starting center. Time is running out, with the deadline for moves between EuroLeague teams set for January 5.

Andrea Trinchieri Explains Why He Turned Down Partizan After Obradović’s Exit

Following the departure of legendary coach Željko Obradović, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade entered a turbulent transition period before eventually appointing Joan Peñarroya as the club’s new head coach.

Among the names linked to the job was former Partizan coach Andrea Trinchieri, widely considered one of the main candidates. However, the Italian coach has now clarified why a return to Belgrade never materialized, speaking in an exclusive interview with Meridian Sport.

“Throughout all these years, I have always said that my love for Partizan is the same,” Trinchieri explained. “I also said many times that the best thing for Partizan was for Željko Obradović to be the coach. His departure created enormous polarization.”

Trinchieri described a situation marked by conflicting emotions: loyalty to the club on one side, and deep respect for Obradović on the other.

“On one hand, there is love for Partizan; on the other, respect for Obradović as a man and a coach. And I immediately told myself: no — I can’t and I don’t want to,” he said.

According to Trinchieri, the polarized atmosphere surrounding the club was unhealthy and damaging.

“This kind of polarization doesn’t benefit anyone. It’s sad, regrettable, and it hurts me. I hope better times are coming — no one needed this.”

The Italian coach confirmed that he never held direct talks with Partizan’s management.

“I didn’t talk to anyone from the club,” he stated. “When you look into the abyss, be careful that the abyss doesn’t look back at you. I didn’t want to get involved in this story.”

Trinchieri also addressed the controversy that followed, after his private phone number was leaked in Serbian media, prompting a wave of messages from fans.

“Among those messages, many were extremely beautiful, some unpleasant — but that’s the world we live in,” he said. “I know who the real ones are and always will.”

He added that the situation reinforced his decision not to pursue the role.

“In this kind of atmosphere, it wouldn’t have been good for Partizan either,” Trinchieri concluded. “Because of love, respect, and everything that was happening, I said no” as reported by basketnews.

Panathinaikos to Keep Omer Yurtseven and Kenneth Faried Through End of Season

Panathinaikos Aktor Athens have decided to retain Omer Yurtseven and Kenneth Faried through the end of the current season, head coach Ergin Ataman confirmed on the eve of the Greek Derby against Olympiacos Piraeus.

Faried initially joined Panathinaikos on a two-month contract that included an option to extend his stay for the remainder of the season. The club has now officially exercised that option.

Yurtseven’s situation was slightly more complex, as both the player and the club held clauses allowing either side to part ways once 2026 began. However, after recent performances, both parties agreed to continue their collaboration.

“Yurtseven will continue with us,” Ataman said. “He has been very good in the last two or three games — not only in Kaunas, but also against Hapoel Tel Aviv and Maroussi. In the Greek League, he is one of our best players. He will stay with us.”

Ataman also addressed Faried’s impact, acknowledging fluctuations in performance while emphasizing his importance within the group.

“Faried won the EuroLeague MVP award in the first month,” Ataman explained. “After that, he played below his potential, but we like him as a person. He’s always very positive and he likes the team. We will keep him until the end of the season.”

Olympiacos Face Crucial Greek Derby as Transfer Deadline Approaches

Olympiacos Piraeus will open 2026 with what is widely considered the most intense game of their season, as they travel to face archrivals Panathinaikos Aktor Athens in the Greek Derby on Friday.

With a 9–7 record and a game in hand, Olympiacos know that a victory is crucial to remain firmly in the EuroLeague playoff picture. However, the derby arrives at a moment of added pressure, as the club is also racing against the clock on the transfer market.

The EuroLeague deadline for transfers between EuroLeague clubs expires in just four days, forcing teams still evaluating roster changes to move quickly. Head coach Georgios Bartzokas confirmed that Olympiacos remain active, while stopping short of offering specifics ahead of such a pivotal matchup.

“A lot of teams are active on the market right now, and that’s visible, especially because of the January 5 deadline,” Bartzokas said. “We are present, but we have a game tomorrow, and I wouldn’t like to comment further.”

Speaking again before the derby, Bartzokas reiterated that the club’s front office continues to explore options to strengthen the roster.

“Olympiacos is still present on the market, but for me to sit down and think about that the day before the match is not my role,” he explained. “We obviously have people responsible for that.”

Bartzokas added that the coaching staff is working closely with ownership to identify potential reinforcements, aware that the decisive phase of the season is approaching.

“We give recommendations on how to strengthen the team, together with owners who want to help, because trophies are decided in the upcoming part of the season,” he concluded.

AEK Athens Welcomes 2026 by Signing James Nunnally

AEK Athens completed the signing of James Nunnally.

 The experienced wing has agreed to a contract through the end of the season. According to Athletiko, Nunnally will earn €40,000 per month, with additional performance-based bonuses tied to results in the Basketball Champions League.

The 35-year-old spent last season in the CBA with Zhejiang Guangsha, where he averaged 9.6 points per game while shooting 44% from three-point range in 13 minutes per contest.

There are no updates at this time regarding the potential move of Chris Silva to Fenerbahce. Meanwhile, the big man has been named MVP of the BCL group stage.

Official: Gianmarco Pozzecco Named Galatasaray Head Coach

Gianmarco Pozzecco is officially the new head coach of Galatasaray. The Turkish club has confirmed that the agreement will run through the end of the 2026/27 season.

Pozzecco will work alongside sporting director Vladimir Micov, with the long-term perspective of potentially joining the NBA Europe project.

Club statement:

“Galatasaray MCT Technic has signed a contract with Gianmarco Pozzecco, one of the most important figures in European basketball thanks to his experience at both club and national team level, valid until the end of the 2026/27 season.

We wish great success to our new head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco in his role, which will begin on January 5, 2026, and welcome him to the Galatasaray family.

Born on September 15, 1972, Gianmarco Pozzecco is one of the most iconic figures in Italian basketball, both as a player and as a coach. During his playing career as a point guard, he suited up for clubs such as Varese, Fortitudo Bologna and Khimki, and also represented the Italian national team at the European Championships and the 2004 Athens Olympics. At club level, he won Italian Serie A titles and reached EuroLeague Finals.

After transitioning into coaching following his playing career, Pozzecco won the FIBA Europe Cup with Sassari in 2019 and was named FIBA Europe Cup Coach of the Year that same season. Following his outstanding stint with Sassari, he worked with major European clubs such as Milan, ASVEL and Cedevita, and from 2022 to 2025 he served as head coach of the Italian national team, leading Italy at EuroBasket and the World Cup.

Once again, we welcome Gianmarco Pozzecco—known for his passion, sideline energy and the strong bond he builds with his players—to the Galatasaray family, and wish him a successful journey under our yellow-and-red colors.”

MoraBanc Andorra close to landing Bosnia international Xavier Castañeda from Unicaja

MoraBanc Andorra are close to finalizing a move for Bosnia international Xavier Castañeda (1.84 m, 25 years old), coming from Unicaja.

Castañeda had been set to join Hiopos Lleida, but did not pass the medical examination with the club.

Stats: not provided in the supplied material.

Gianmarco Pozzecco reportedly in talks with Galatasaray

Gianmarco Pozzecco is reportedly the favourite to take over as Galatasaray head coach, according to Chema de Lucas.

The Turkish team, currently led by Yakup Sekizkök, has a 7-6 record in the BSL and has qualified for the Round of 16 of the BCL.

On Christmas Day, the Turkish club announced Vladimir Micov as its new sporting director. Gianmarco Pozzecco left the national team in the summer after Eurobasket.

Gli ultimi commenti

Hot news