Basket rumors

02/09/202615:30

Short-handed Baskonia cancel friendly as Khalifa Diop travels to Cleveland

Baskonia have cancelled Wednesday’s closed-door friendly against Gipuzkoa Basket. According to Marca, the club does not have enough available players to contest the game.

Kobi Simmons and Damion Baugh are away with their respective national teams, while Kenneth Faried has yet to join the squad. Khalifa Diop, meanwhile, has travelled to the United States with Baskonia’s permission.

The center will undergo medical tests with the Cleveland Cavaliers, who selected him with the 39th pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. No deal is official yet, but his departure would require compensation and leave Baskonia searching for two more big men.

02/09/202615:06

Isaih Moore signs with Śląsk Wrocław

Śląsk Wrocław has officially announced the signing of Isaih Moore, a 208 cm American big man who has signed a contract for the 2026/27 season. The 26-year-old has NBA G League experience and spent last season in the Canadian Elite Basketball League with the Ottawa BlackJacks.

The move represents a significant addition for the Polish club, particularly ahead of its participation in the BKT EuroCup.

Moore’s career

Born on August 30, 2000, in Columbia, South Carolina, Moore first made a name for himself at Sumter High School, leading the team to a regional championship. During his senior season, he averaged an impressive 25.5 points and 13.3 rebounds per game.

He went on to play college basketball for College of Charleston, St. John’s, Southern Miss and Fresno State, as well as competing at the JUCO level. His 2019/20 season at Pearl River Community College was particularly successful, as he averaged 15.9 points and 9.1 rebounds, while shooting 54.3% from the field.

From the G League to the CEBL

In 2022, Moore declared for the NBA Draft and subsequently began his professional career in the NBA G League, including a stint with the Windy City Bulls, before moving to Canada.

With the Ottawa BlackJacks, he established himself as one of the CEBL’s standout players. In the 2025 season, he averaged 19.3 points and 11.4 rebounds per game, earning a spot on the league’s Second Team.

He also enjoyed a strong recent stretch in the G League with the College Park SkyHawks, averaging 16.7 points and 9.1 rebounds, while shooting an impressive 75.2% from two-point range.

He then continued his Canadian experience with the Edmonton Stingers and Ottawa BlackJacks.

A reinforcement for EuroCup

Moore is a versatile player capable of making an impact both in the paint and on the boards. Throughout his career, he has also established himself as a tough defender and an effective finisher around the basket.

02/09/202611:01

Rīgas Zeļļi sign Ukrainian forward Ivan Tkachenko

Tkachenko returns to Riga

Rīgas Zeļļi have strengthened their roster for the new season with the signing of 29-year-old Ukrainian national team forward Ivan Tkachenko.

The 197 cm forward returns to a Latvian basketball scene he knows well, having spent two seasons with Prometey when the Ukrainian club was based in Riga.

During his time with Prometey, Tkachenko became a two-time Latvian-Estonian Basketball League champion and also played in European competition for two seasons.

 

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Kondratiavičus: “He fits our system very well”

Rīgas Zeļļi head coach Rokas Kondratiavičus highlighted Tkachenko’s versatility and defensive abilities.

“Ivan is a player with a lot of experience in European basketball. He is athletic and physical, can defend the opposing team’s best players, and also has a good shot. He fits our playing system very well, where we want to be aggressive on defense and play fast basketball on offense.”

Skuja’s injury changed the plans

Rīgas Zeļļi president Edgars Buļs explained that the injury suffered by Toms Skuja led the club to reconsider its roster plans.

“Although we had finished our active roster construction, Toms Skuja’s injury changed our plans slightly. Together with the coaches, we watched several games of the Ukrainian national team, and we liked what we saw from Tkachenko.”

Buļs added that Tkachenko had expressed his desire to remain in Riga, allowing the two sides to reach an agreement quickly.

The club is also pleased with his ability to play multiple positions and contribute significantly without the ball. In domestic competitions, Tkachenko is classified as a Latvian player, which could prove important when the team reaches the decisive stages of the season.

Tkachenko: “Time to get to work”

The Ukrainian forward is excited about starting the next chapter of his career in Riga.

“I am very happy to start a new chapter in my career with Rīgas Zeļļi! I am grateful for the opportunity to represent this club and can’t wait to start working with my new teammates, coaches and everyone else in the organization. I am looking forward to a great season in Riga. Time to get to work!”

02/09/202610:17

Roy Rogers named first head coach of Liverpool Basketball

Rogers to lead Liverpool’s inaugural season

Liverpool Basketball owner Jason Dolan has announced the appointment of Roy Rogers as the club’s first-ever head coach, ahead of its inaugural season in Super League Basketball (SLB).

Rogers brings nearly two decades of NBA coaching experience to Liverpool, making his appointment one of the most significant coaching hires in the history of British basketball.

“It was paramount that we enter our inaugural season and set the tone by bringing in a coach of Roy’s calibre,” said Dolan. “We’re talking about a leader who brings nearly two decades of NBA experience to our organisation. We’re not here just to participate; we’re building a club that will represent Liverpool to the highest standards, and Roy is the perfect coach to lead the way.”

Nearly two decades of NBA experience

Rogers joins Liverpool after most recently working on the coaching staff at the University of Memphis.

Before Memphis, he spent four seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers from 2021 to 2025, including a role as the team’s defensive coordinator.

His NBA coaching résumé also includes the Los Angeles Clippers, Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics. Rogers began his coaching career in the NBA Development League in 2004.

During his career, he worked alongside respected coaches including Doc Rivers, Mike D’Antoni, Tyronn Lue, Lawrence Frank and Randy Wittman.

Former first-round pick

Before becoming a coach, Rogers was selected in the first round of the 1996 NBA Draft, a class that included Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash and Ray Allen.

He played four seasons in the NBA with the Vancouver Grizzlies, Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors and Denver Nuggets, before continuing his playing career internationally, including a stint with European powerhouse CSKA Moscow.

“From my first conversation with Jason, it was clear this club is being built the right way, from the ground up,” Rogers said. “The chance to be the first head coach in Liverpool Basketball history — to set the standard for everything that follows — is the kind of opportunity a coach gets once in a career.”

Cantwell joins coaching staff

Paul Cantwell will join Rogers as an assistant coach. Cantwell previously served as head coach of the Yorkshire Dragons in British Championship Basketball (BCB).

Rogers will make his home debut at the M&S Bank Arena on October 4 against Manchester.

01/09/202620:43

Nuni Omot Signs with Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin

Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin announced the signing of Nuni Omot.

The 31-year-old forward returns to China after a season that saw him play in Lebanon and the Philippines, along with two CBA games and three appearances in the Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Omot has previously played in China for the Ningbo Rockets and Beijing Shougang.

01/09/202618:31

Thanasis Antetokounmpo joins Aris on a 2+1 deal

Aris BC has officially announced the signing of Thanasis Antetokounmpo on a 2+1-year deal. The 2.01-meter forward, born in 1992, returns to Greece after spending several seasons playing in both the NBA and Europe.

From the G League to the NBA

Antetokounmpo began his professional career with Filathlitikos in 2011 before moving to the United States to join the Delaware 87ers, the Philadelphia 76ers’ affiliate in the NBA Development League.

In 2014, the New York Knicks selected him with the 51st overall pick in the NBA Draft. He spent most of the following two seasons with the Westchester Knicks, while also making two NBA appearances for New York during the 2015-16 season.

Back to Europe with Panathinaikos

In 2016, Antetokounmpo returned to Europe and joined Andorra. One year later, he moved back to Greece to sign with Panathinaikos AKTOR.

He won back-to-back Greek championships with the Athens club in 2018 and 2019 and was also named MVP of the 2018 Greek All-Star Game.

NBA champion with the Bucks

In 2019, Antetokounmpo returned to the NBA by signing with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he reunited with his brother Giannis.

He became an NBA champion in 2021, remaining with Milwaukee until this summer and making 255 appearances for the franchise. He missed the 2024-25 season due to injury.

Representing Greece at the 2027 World Cup Qualifiers

Antetokounmpo has been a member of the Greek national team since 2016 and is currently representing Greece in its campaign to qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

01/09/202617:49

Nigel Hayes-Davis injury: Panathinaikos star’s expected absences and recovery timeline

Nigel Hayes-Davis suffered a hand injury during Panathinaikos’ practice today. Medical tests revealed a fracture of the fourth metacarpal in his left hand, and the player was fitted with a special splint. Initial evaluations indicate that he is expected to miss approximately six weeks.

Based on that timeline, Hayes-Davis is expected to miss Panathinaikos’ first five EuroLeague games: Paris (September 24), ASVEL (September 30), Maccabi Tel Aviv (October 2), Fenerbahce (October 8) and Partizan (October 13).

The first game after that stretch is scheduled for October 16 against Hapoel Tel Aviv. However, Hayes-Davis’ availability for that game will depend on the progress of his recovery and the final assessment from the medical staff.

01/09/202612:33

Joshua Primo signs with Parma on a 1+1 deal

Joshua Primo is the latest addition to BC BETCITY Parma, with the Russian club announcing an agreement with the 23-year-old Canadian guard on a 1+1 contract.

 

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Joshua Primo joins BC Parma

Primo stands at 1.98 meters and weighs 86 kilograms. The Canadian guard played his college basketball at the University of Alabama before entering the NBA Draft in 2021.

The San Antonio Spurs selected Primo with the No. 12 overall pick in the first round, and he subsequently spent three seasons in the NBA.

Primo’s experience in the NBA and G League

During the 2023-24 season, Primo played for the Los Angeles Clippers’ G League affiliate, averaging 16.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game.

His performances in the G League represented his most recent competitive action before stepping away from the court to focus on his recovery.

Joshua Primo returns after injury

According to Parma, Primo spent the 2024-25 season recovering from an injury. The club confirmed that the Canadian guard is now healthy and ready to contribute to the team during the upcoming season.

The agreement between Primo and BC BETCITY Parma is structured as a 1+1 contract, giving the 23-year-old an opportunity to restart his career in Russia.

31/08/202618:13

Jaylen Hands signs with SIG Strasbourg: former Varese star officially joins the club

SIG Strasbourg have officially announced the signing of Jaylen Hands for the 2026-27 season. The 1.91-meter, 27-year-old American combo guard will strengthen Jānis Gailītis’ backcourt with his explosiveness, three-point shooting and ability to create his own shot.

Jaylen Hands’ journey through NCAA and the G League

Born in San Diego, Hands played two seasons at UCLA, in 2017-18 and 2018-19, before being selected in the second round of the 2019 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers and subsequently sent to the Brooklyn Nets.

He began his G League career with the Long Island Nets during the 2019-20 season. In 2020-21, Hands moved to Europe for the first time, playing in Belgrade before continuing his career in Germany with Ludwigsburg and in Belgium with Antwerp Giants, where he also competed in the FIBA Europe Cup.

Jaylen Hands breaks out with PAOK

Hands took a major step forward during the 2022-23 season with PAOK Thessaloniki. He averaged 16.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists in the Greek league, helping the team finish fourth in the regular season and reach the playoff semifinals.

He also impressed in the Basketball Champions League, shooting 41% from three-point range during the regular season.

Liga Endesa experience and breakout season with Varese

After beginning the 2023-24 season with Peristeri, where an injury interrupted his campaign, Hands joined Palencia and averaged 10.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.0 assists over 12 Liga Endesa appearances.

The 2024-25 season proved to be the best of his career. Playing for Varese, Hands became the Italian league’s leading scorer, averaging 19.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. He scored at least 20 points 17 times and erupted for 42 points against Scafati, including an impressive 9-of-13 from three-point range.

Jaylen Hands joins SIG Strasbourg

Last season, Hands started with Panionios, where he made his EuroCup debut, before moving to China in January and finishing the campaign with Murcia. He appeared in eight Liga Endesa games for the Spanish club, averaging 8.1 points and 2.3 rebounds in 15.3 minutes.

Strasbourg will now rely on his ability to create shots, attack the basket, knock down catch-and-shoot opportunities and facilitate for his teammates.

Nicola Alberani and Jānis Gailītis welcome Hands

SIG sporting director Nicola Alberani highlighted the importance of the signing: “Jaylen’s signing is very important for us. We are bringing to Strasbourg a player who perfectly complements our team. With Jaylen, we are adding a player with unique talent who can create both for himself and for his teammates.”

Head coach Jānis Gailītis also praised Hands’ offensive profile: “Jaylen is a player with a very interesting offensive profile. He is capable of creating his own shot, but also of putting his teammates in good positions thanks to his vision.”

Hands has already signed his contract with SIG Strasbourg, but the club is still waiting for the completion of the administrative procedures required for his visa before he can join the team.

31/08/202617:05

BC Roma and Jesse Edwards Agree to Contract Termination

BC Roma and Jesse Edwards have reached a mutual agreement to terminate their contractual relationship. The center has been unable to participate in on-court practices since the beginning of training camp due to physical issues.

Jesse Edwards to Continue Rehabilitation at Home

Edwards will leave Rome and continue his recovery and rehabilitation process in his home country. The decision was reached by mutual agreement, taking into account the player’s physical needs and the need to prioritize his recovery.

BC Roma and Jesse Edwards Keep the Door Open

Despite the contract termination, the relationship between the two sides remains open. Once Edwards has fully recovered and is available to return to competitive action, BC Roma and Jesse Edwards will evaluate during the season the possibility of resuming the path they began together in Rome.

31/08/202616:33

Marcus Foster stays with Telekom Baskets Bonn for the 2026-27 season

Marcus Foster has earned a full-season contract with the Telekom Baskets Bonn after impressing during the preseason. The 24-year-old American was initially brought in as a temporary addition, but his performances and quick integration into the team convinced the club to keep him for the upcoming campaign.

Marcus Foster impresses during the preseason

Foster has stood out particularly for his offensive talent, adding another important dimension to Bonn’s attack. Across the team’s first three preseason games against Frankfurt, Trier and Oostende, the American averaged 14.7 points per game.

He scored 23 points against Frankfurt and 15 against Oostende, finishing as Bonn’s leading scorer in both games.

Tylan Birts’ injury creates opportunity for Foster

Foster’s permanent signing also comes following the injury to Tylan Birts. The forward underwent surgery after the progression of his injury failed to develop as hoped.

“After Tylan’s injury, it was clear that we needed reinforcement on the wing not only for preseason, but also for the upcoming season,” Baskets sporting director Savo Milovic explained.

Birts’ surgery was successful and his rehabilitation has already begun, although the club will need to wait several weeks before providing a precise timetable for his return.

Marko Stankovic praises Foster’s integration

Head coach Marko Stankovic has also been impressed by Foster’s early impact.

“Marcus has integrated very well into the team and quickly found his role. Alongside the qualities he is already bringing, he also has further potential to develop,” Stankovic said.

With both sides satisfied with the collaboration, an agreement on a permanent deal was reached quickly. Foster will now officially be part of the Telekom Baskets Bonn roster for the 2026-27 season, which begins on September 19.

Foster to join Bonn on Japan trip

Foster will travel to Japan with his new teammates on Tuesday evening, as the Baskets prepare to make their first appearance on Japanese soil in club history.

Bonn will face Japanese champions Nagasaki Velca twice in the B.LEAGUE GLOBAL INVITATIONAL 2026, with games scheduled for September 4 at 12:00 p.m. and September 6 at 8:00 a.m. German time.

“I’m very happy to stay with the Baskets. Bonn is a great city with tremendous support from the fans. The organization and the entire team welcomed me like a member of the family from the very beginning,” Foster said.

31/08/202615:40

Cleveland Cavaliers interested in signing Khalifa Diop

Khalifa Diop could leave Baskonia to join the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Ohio franchise acquired his NBA rights after he was selected with the 39th pick in the 2022 draft.

According to El Correo, Cleveland is prepared to offer the Senegalese big man a contract worth around $1.5 million. Baskonia would be willing to release Diop despite his existing contract.

No agreement has been finalized, with financial terms still to be settled and Diop expected to travel to the United States for medical examinations. His departure would leave Kenneth Faried as Baskonia’s only center and force the club to add two frontcourt players.

31/08/202611:09

Keyshawn Hall returns to college basketball (despite offer from Miami Heat), commits to St. John’s

In the wake of a ruling granting certain players an additional year of NCAA eligibility, Keyshawn Hall has committed to St. John’s University for the upcoming season. Hall had been set to sign an Exhibit 10 training camp deal with the Miami Heat, but the 6-foot-7 forward will now return to college basketball for a fifth season.

Keyshawn Hall returns to NCAA after Auburn season

Hall played for Auburn last season, averaging 19.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. After going undrafted in the 2026 NBA Draft, he joined the Miami Heat for the NBA Summer League.

Hall appeared in five total games for Miami, averaging 3.2 points and 3.4 rebounds in 16.1 minutes per game.

NCAA eligibility remains uncertain for Keyshawn Hall

Hall’s situation remains tied to the ongoing legal battle between the NCAA and the courts over whether players in his situation should receive an additional year of eligibility.

If Hall is ultimately ruled ineligible, he could then sign with Miami or another professional team. For now, however, the forward has opted to continue his college career at St. John’s for another season.

30/08/202619:02

Barcelona close to signing Justin Minaya

Barcelona is close to completing the signing of 27-year-old Dominican forward Justin Minaya. According to Esports RAC1, negotiations are now at an advanced stage.

The 1.96-meter forward spent last season in the G League with the Osceola Magic. Minaya also brings international experience as a regular member of the Dominican Republic national team.

His arrival would represent Barcelona’s 11th addition of the summer. The Catalan club has carried out an extensive roster rebuild under new head coach Aleksander Sekulic.

30/08/202614:20

Science City Jena Sign Isaiah Moses

Science City Jena  announced the signing of Isaiah Moses to a contract through mid-September, with an option to extend the deal through the end of the season.

The rookie finished his college career with Eastern Washington, averaging 17.8 points (41% from three) and 4.2 assists per game in his senior season.

29/08/202609:50

Peñarroya on Jabari Parker: “It’s not an easy situation, I hope we can resolve it quickly”

Jabari Parker and Partizan are in a situation of separation under the same roof. The former NBA player is not part of the Serbian team’s plans for next season, despite still being under contract.

Parker arrived in Belgrade at the beginning of preseason and is currently one of the highest-paid players on the roster. The American, who joined the club last summer at the explicit request of Željko Obradović, is training separately from the rest of the team while the club and his representatives work to find an agreement to terminate his contract.

Last season, Parker failed to produce the expected performances with Partizan or take on the leading role envisioned for him when he arrived. In the second half of the season, he was therefore loaned to Joventut, where he showed glimpses of his talent. However, the Badalona club was unable to continue its relationship with the player due to the high salary stipulated in his Partizan contract.

Joan Peñarroya has now provided further clarity, speaking openly about Parker’s situation in a preview of an interview conducted by Mozzart Sport and confirming that the club is building its team without him.

“It’s not an easy situation. I hope we can resolve it quickly, first of all for the club, but also for Jabari himself. He is a good guy,” Peñarroya said.

The Spanish coach then further clarified the club’s position: “What I can explain is that we are building a team without Parker for next season. That is completely clear. He has a valid contract, and I have great respect for these kinds of situations, and I respect Jabari, I repeat, he is a good guy. However, it is completely clear that we are building the team without him.”

28/08/202620:00

Olympiacos questions procedure for Mustapha Fall’s Greek passport

Olympiacos has raised questions over the procedure followed by Mustapha Fall to obtain a Greek passport. The French center, now a Panathinaikos player, began the necessary process before the end of the 2025-26 season.

In a statement released on Friday, August 28, Olympiacos requested clarification from the relevant authorities regarding reports about documents submitted by Fall and the subsequent administrative process.

The Piraeus club also questioned whether the Greek Basketball Federation had been consulted before the favorable recommendation was issued. Olympiacos further called for explanations regarding an alleged change to the circular governing the citizenship procedure.

28/08/202615:14

John Meeks joins Yukatel Denizli Basket for the 2026-27 season

John Meeks is a new Yukatel Denizli Basket player. The 1.98-meter American forward will wear the green-and-black jersey in the 2026-27 season, bringing physicality, three-point shooting and versatility to the Turkish club.

John Meeks joins Yukatel Denizli Basket

Meeks arrives in Denizli after spending the 2025-26 season with Galatasaray. He averaged 7.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 0.6 assists per game in Turkey, shooting 39.7% from three-point range.

John Meeks’ last three seasons

Meeks has played in three different European leagues over the past three seasons.

In 2023-24, with Donar Groningen, he averaged 18.1 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game while shooting 43.0% from three-point range.

The following season, Meeks moved to Israel to play for Bnei Herzliya. He posted 15.7 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game, shooting 42.9% from beyond the arc.

John Meeks adds shooting and versatility to Denizli

Yukatel Denizli Basket is adding a player capable of combining physical strength with perimeter shooting. His three-point ability stands out among his offensive qualities, with Meeks shooting above 42% from deep during his two seasons before joining Galatasaray.

He will now look to bring his experience and versatility to Yukatel Denizli Basket during the 2026-27 season.

28/08/202615:08

Lloyd Pandi returns to RASTA Vechta for the 2026-27 season

Lloyd Pandi will return to RASTA Vechta for the 2026-27 season. The 26-year-old Canadian, who has been a key contributor and fan favorite over the past two seasons, has agreed to rejoin head coach Christian Held’s team just weeks before the Basketball Champions League qualification tournament.

Pandi arrives in Vechta after spending the summer in Canada with the Vancouver Bandits, helping the team reach the Canadian Elite Basketball League semifinals and remaining in good shape ahead of the new season.

Lloyd Pandi returns to RASTA Vechta

“RASTA is a great club where I can continue to develop. I am looking forward to seeing many of my teammates and coaches from last season again,” Pandi said.

The Canadian made his Vechta debut in September 2024. During the 2025-26 easyCredit Basketball Bundesliga season, he appeared in 31 games, averaging 7.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 0.9 steals in 24:09 minutes per game.

After wearing No. 41 during his first two seasons with RASTA, Pandi will now wear No. 2.

Christian Held welcomes Lloyd Pandi back to Vechta

Head coach Christian Held believes Pandi is an ideal fit for the team, particularly because of his versatility and ability to provide additional depth.

“Lloyd fits this team perfectly from a human standpoint. We want to give the roster a little more depth, especially considering the additional workload created by European competition. We don’t want to overload our players,” Held said.

RASTA Vechta will play its first official game of the season on September 15 at the Basketball Champions League qualifying tournament in Bulgaria.

Pandi is confident about his current fitness after playing in Canada until early August.

“I played until the beginning of August, so I am in shape. That will make the transition into preseason easier. Then, in mid-September, we want to qualify for the Basketball Champions League and go as far as possible in every competition,” Pandi said.

Lloyd Pandi returns as Lamin Sabally faces injury

Pandi’s return also comes after the injury suffered by Lamin Sabally. The power forward has been sidelined with an ankle injury and will miss several weeks following a procedure.

“I feel very sorry for him. Lamin is not only a great basketball player, but also a top person and brings a lot to the team. His absence is obviously not good news,” Held said.

The RASTA head coach believes, however, that the team’s roster construction provides enough flexibility to compensate for Sabally’s absence. Pandi’s ability to play multiple positions should be particularly valuable in that regard.

RASTA Vechta adds Pandi ahead of BCL qualification

Pandi played 15 games for the Vancouver Bandits between mid-June and early August, averaging 7.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.6 steals as Vancouver reached the CEBL semifinals.

“We deliberately kept one roster spot open and monitored the market all along,” sporting director Gerrit Kersten-Thiele explained. “Lloyd is someone we already wanted to re-sign in the spring. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out at that time. He is a character and a type of player that we value very highly.”

Pandi will be RASTA Vechta’s sixth foreign player and returns to an environment he already knows well. That familiarity was another key factor behind the club’s decision to bring him back ahead of the BCL qualifying tournament.

Lloyd Pandi brings experience and versatility to Vechta

“Lloyd will need a little bit of time to get going because the current team is different from last season’s team. But our rules are very similar in many areas, so I’m sure he will fit in very quickly,” Held added.

Born in Ottawa in 1999, Pandi stands 1.93 meters tall and has experience in Germany, Turkey and Canada, as well as with the Canadian national team.

28/08/202610:11

Markel Brown’s agent: “The player will not return to Trieste”

Markel Brown’s agent Brian Jungreis provided Il Piccolo with his version of the dispute with Pallacanestro Trieste. “Although Markel remains under contract, given the current situation and the way it has been handled, we have no intention of sending him back to Trieste this season.”

According to Jungreis, Brown’s camp proposed a settlement that the club rejected. “They are demanding 83 percent of the value of a contract he has not yet been paid and are also trying to penalize him for expenses we never agreed to.” The agent also cited the ownership change, repeated management turnover and difficulties building a competitive roster among the causes of the split.

Jungreis separated Brown’s feelings for the city from his relationship with club management. “Markel loves the fans and the city of Trieste, but the way the club has handled this situation has been shocking.” He also accused general manager Michael Arcieri of disclosing confidential information and figures after asking the parties to maintain confidentiality.

27/08/202619:20

Rob Gray Jr. joins Jiangsu Suke Lions

Rob Gray Jr. is a new player for the Jiangsu Suke Lions, as announced by the guard’s representatives.

Gray Jr is coming off a strong season with Peristeri in Greece, where he averaged 20 points, 3.1 assists and 1.9 steals per game across domestic league and BCL competition.

This will be the former Houston standout’s first experience playing in Asia.

27/08/202619:10

Jordan Howard Returns to China, Signs with Sichuan Blue Whales

Jordan Howard is returning to China, where he will suit up for the Sichuan Blue Whales.in the upcoming CBA.

The 30-year-old point guard is coming off a season in the BSN with the Cangrejeros de Santurce, where he averaged 14.1 points and 3.6 assists per game.

Howard previously played in China during the 2024-25 season, making his CBA debut with the Ningbo Rockets and averaging 18.5 points per game.

27/08/202609:47

Cody Demps joins Dole Rimini

Cody Demps completes the Dole Rimini roster

Dole Rimini have officially announced the signing of Cody Demps, the American wing born in 1993 who completes the Italian club’s roster. Standing 195 cm tall and weighing 88 kg, Demps is an athletic, physical and highly versatile player.

The American can play multiple positions on the perimeter, from shooting guard to both wing spots, while also being capable of handling point guard duties thanks to his ability to facilitate for his teammates. He also brings the ability to attack the basket, shoot from mid-range and beyond the arc, and contribute on the boards.

Cody Demps’ career in the NCAA and G League

Born on December 2, 1993, in Elk Grove, California, Demps completed his high school career at Pleasant Grove before playing college basketball for the Sacramento State Hornets.

He progressively improved his production throughout his four years in the NCAA, finishing his final season with averages of 12 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game.

Demps began his professional career in 2016 with the Reno Bighorns in the G League. He remained with the franchise following its move to Stockton and enjoyed a particularly strong 2019-20 season, averaging 14.3 points and 5 rebounds per game.

His performances earned him an opportunity with the Sacramento Kings in the NBA.

Cody Demps arrives in Rimini after European experience

Demps later joined the G League Ignite, where he also served as a mentor for some of the most promising young prospects in American basketball.

In 2021, he moved to Europe and joined Hapoel Beer Sheva in Israel. During his first European season, he averaged 15.3 points per game.

In 2024-25, he played for Elitzur Netanya, averaging 10.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game while shooting 44% from three-point range.

Last season, Demps returned to Hapoel Beer Sheva and averaged 14 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 45% from the field. He scored at least 20 points in four games, including 27 points against Bnei Herzliya and 20 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists against Hapoel Tel Aviv.

Cody Demps also has Team USA experience

Demps’ career also includes experience in several major Asian leagues and with the United States national team.

The California native represented Team USA during the qualifying campaign for the 2023 FIBA World Cup, helping the national team reach the global competition.

Renato Nicolai: “We have brought a player above this level to Rimini”

Dole Rimini general manager Renato Nicolai commented on Demps’ signing:

“It was a quick negotiation: Cody had offers from the Italian Serie A and other top European leagues. He chose Rimini because he firmly believes in the potential of the club and the team.”

Nicolai added: “We are convinced that we have brought a player above this level to Rimini, someone who will fit perfectly into our group and excite our fans.”

Cody Demps will wear No. 93 for Dole Rimini.

27/08/202608:58

Mike Caffey signs with Šiauliai on a one-year deal

Šiauliai have officially signed Mike Caffey, with the 33-year-old American point guard agreeing to a one-year contract with the Lithuanian club.

Caffey will strengthen Šiauliai’s backcourt as the team prepares for the upcoming season and its return to international competition under head coach Darius Songaila.

Mike Caffey brings experience and leadership to Šiauliai

The 1.83-meter point guard spent the last two seasons with Voluntari CSO, competing in the Romanian league and the ENBL.

Head coach Darius Songaila highlighted Caffey’s European experience and his ability to perform in important games.

“Mike has accumulated solid experience in European basketball, and as we step onto the international stage, that will be extremely important for us. A year ago, he deservedly became the ENBL Final Four MVP, which shows his ability to control the game at the most important moments. This is a strong addition that we were really missing,” Songaila said.

Mike Caffey was an ENBL champion

Caffey helped Voluntari CSO reach the ENBL Final Four in two consecutive seasons. During the 2024-25 campaign, the American guard helped the Romanian club win the title and was named Final Four MVP.

In his most recent Romanian league season, Caffey appeared in 36 games, averaging 10.9 points, 2.7 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 23 minutes per game.

He shot 58.6% from two-point range, 31.9% from three-point range and 76.9% from the free-throw line.

Mike Caffey’s European basketball career

Caffey has built an extensive European career before joining Voluntari CSO.

The American point guard has previously played in the top divisions of Poland, Germany, Ukraine, Slovakia, Finland, Greece and Hungary, with Lithuania now becoming the latest stop in his European career.

Šiauliai begin preseason

Šiauliai have already started their preseason schedule. In their first friendly game, Songaila’s team defeated Latvian champions Glass VIA Valmiera 117-99.

Šiauliai will next face Sabah Baku in Birštonas on Saturday before taking part in the Algimantas Mikšys Cup at Šiauliai Arena on September 4-5.

27/08/202608:52

Ryan Hawkins joins KK Bosna BH Telecom

KK Bosna BH Telecom has officially announced the signing of Ryan Hawkins, who will join the Sarajevo club for the upcoming season. The American player, who can play as a forward/center, arrives after spending last season in Germany with the Fraport Skyliners.

Ryan Hawkins’ Bundesliga numbers

During the past season, Hawkins appeared in 34 games in the German Bundesliga, averaging 8.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 22.5 minutes per game.

The German experience adds another chapter to Hawkins’ European career as he now prepares to begin a new challenge with KK Bosna BH Telecom.

Hawkins’ experience with Stade Rochelais

Before moving to Germany, Hawkins spent the 2024-25 season in France with Stade Rochelais.

He played 30 games, averaging 8.9 points and 2.8 rebounds, adding valuable experience to his European career.

Ryan Hawkins also has Serie A experience

The new KK Bosna BH Telecom signing has also played in Italy’s Serie A.

Hawkins appeared in 29 games in the Italian top division, averaging 9.3 points and 1.0 assist, while shooting 40% from three-point range.

His experience across Germany, France and Italy gives the American forward a solid background in European basketball.

Ryan Hawkins ready for his new challenge in Sarajevo

With the addition of Ryan Hawkins, KK Bosna BH Telecom strengthens its roster with a player who has experience across several European leagues.

Hawkins is now ready to begin the next chapter of his career in Bosnia and Herzegovina with the Sarajevo-based club.

“Ryan, welcome to Sarajevo!”

26/08/202616:00

Noah Freidel officially joins Peristeri Betsson

Peristeri Betsson has officially announced the signing of Noah Freidel, a 26-year-old, 1.93-meter American guard. The agreement comes one day after the club parted ways with Paul Scruggs and is aimed at strengthening the team’s backcourt.

Freidel spent last season in Poland with King Szczecin, averaging 10.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 0.9 steals over 35 games. He also shot 34.6% from three-point range while playing 23.7 minutes per game.

Born in Tea, South Dakota, on November 26, 2000, Freidel played college basketball for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits before joining the James Madison Dukes. Across 132 college games, he averaged 11.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.8 steals.

His first European experience came during the 2024-25 season in Belgium with the Stella Artois Leuven Bears. In 38 games, he averaged 16.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.3 steals, while shooting 36.9% from three-point range.

Freidel will now join Peristeri for the 2026-27 season, adding another option and greater depth to the team’s backcourt.

26/08/202614:05

Aliağa Petkim signs Anzejs Pasečņiks

Aliağa Petkim have strengthened their frontcourt with Latvian big man Anzejs Pasečņiks.

Born in 1995 and standing at 2.16 meters, Pasečņiks has also represented the Latvian national team. Last season, he played in Taiwan for the Hsinchu JKO Lioneers, averaging 10.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game.

 

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The Latvian center also has NBA experience, having played 28 games for the Washington Wizards between 2019 and 2021. He averaged 5.6 points and 3.9 rebounds in 15.8 minutes per game.

26/08/202613:43

Hapoel Jerusalem remains in EuroLeague race and prepares franchise proposal

Hapoel Jerusalem wants to join the EuroLeague

After EuroLeague Basketball announced that 11 teams had submitted pre-accepted franchise proposals worth nearly €700 million in fees, Hapoel Jerusalem has confirmed that it remains firmly in contention for a long-term EuroLeague license.

The Israeli club was not included among the initial 11 pre-accepted proposals, but has since clarified that it expects to advance to the second stage of the application process.

The EuroLeague franchise process

The Board of Shareholders of Euroleague Commercial Assets (ECA) received more than 20 formal expressions of interest and proposals from existing EuroLeague and EuroCup clubs, as well as new investment projects seeking to join the competition.

The application process began in July 2026 and aims to award up to eight new long-term franchises for the 2027-28 season.

During the second phase, EuroLeague Basketball will conduct a more extensive review of each proposal before presenting its final recommendations at the next Owners’ meeting, scheduled for the end of September 2026.

Hapoel Jerusalem confirms its bid

Hapoel Jerusalem has rejected reports suggesting that it is out of the race and confirmed that it is preparing a proposal for the EuroLeague Board.

“Contrary to recent reports, Hapoel Jerusalem remains firmly in contention for a long-term EuroLeague franchise license.”

The club is currently conducting a comprehensive due diligence process, which is expected to continue over the coming weeks. The goal is to develop and submit a final proposal ahead of next month’s EuroLeague Board meeting.

Matan Adelson: “Our ambition is clear”

Hapoel Jerusalem owner Matan Adelson also reiterated the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level of European basketball.

“Hapoel Jerusalem’s ambition is clear: to compete at the highest level of European basketball.”

Adelson added that the club intends to present the EuroLeague with a very strong proposal, both economically and strategically, expressing confidence that Hapoel Jerusalem can make a compelling case for approval by the EuroLeague Board.

26/08/202612:19

DeAndre Pinckney joins AEK BC

AEK BC have officially announced the signing of DeAndre Pinckney, a 26-year-old American forward standing 2.03 meters tall.

Born on February 29, 2000, in Miami Gardens, Florida, Pinckney played his college basketball at Southern Mississippi, graduating in 2023. During his final NCAA season, he averaged 12.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game.

Pinckney’s international experience

Over the past three seasons, Pinckney has played for six different teams across Europe and Puerto Rico.

He began his professional career with the Bakken Bears in Denmark, averaging 15.8 points and 8.1 rebounds. He then moved to France, where he played for Le Portel, recording 7.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.

Pinckney subsequently joined Hapoel Haifa in Israel, where he averaged 13.5 points and 6.5 rebounds, before moving to Romania to play for Vâlcea, posting 13.6 points and 5.8 rebounds.

Strong numbers with Ramat Gan

The American forward returned to Israel with Ramat Gan, enjoying one of his most productive professional seasons.

Pinckney averaged 17.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, establishing himself as an important contributor on both ends of the floor.

He most recently played for Arecibo in Puerto Rico, where he finished with 11 points and 7.7 rebounds per game.

AEK are now adding a versatile forward with significant international experience despite his relatively young age.

DeAndre Pinckney is ready for his next challenge with the “Queen.”

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