Basket rumors

18/08/202621:52

Maxima Roma Signs Mirza Alibegović on a Two-Year Deal

Maxima Roma has announced the signing of veteran guard Mirza Alibegović on a two-year contract.

The 34-year-old brings extensive experience from across Italian basketball, having played for Pesaro, Pistoia, Brindisi, Mantova, Brescia, Torino, Capo d’Orlando, Tortona and Cremona. He helped Brescia and Cremona earn promotion to Serie A in 2016 and 2023, respectively.

Alibegović spent the last three seasons as captain of APU Udine, leading the team to promotion to Serie A in 2025. Last season, he averaged 12.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game, shooting 35.7% from three-point range.

“I’m joining this ambitious new project with great enthusiasm. I’m convinced this is an important step in my career, allowing me to compete at the highest level in Italy and Europe,” Alibegović said. “Playing in Rome is an additional motivation to always give my best. We are a completely new team and our goal will be to get people passionate about our colors.”

With Alibegović arriving from Udine, Maxima Roma adds a proven and experienced Italian perimeter player to its roster.

18/08/202621:10

Shaq Buchanan Joins Panionios

Shaq Buchanan is the newest addition to Panionios, as announced by the Greek club.

The guard joins after splitting last season between Israel and Poland. With Elitzur Netanya, he averaged 11.4 points, 3.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game, before moving to Anwil Wloclawek, where he posted 14 points and 1.9 assists per game.

Buchanan also has NBA experience, having appeared in two games with the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2021-22 season.

18/08/202620:50

ASVEL Signs 19-Year-Old Point Guard Marc-Owen Fodzo Dada

Marc-Owen Fodzo Dada is the newest addition to ASVEL, as announced by the French club.

The 19-year-old point guard joins from Nancy, where he averaged 6.1 points and 1.8 assists in 13 minutes per game in the French league last season.

Coach Parker’s club has been very active on the market recently, with the arrival of TyTy Washington reportedly now just a matter of time.

 

18/08/202617:15

Markus Howard turns down Galatasaray’s offer and stays with Baskonia

Markus Howard has decided to continue his career with Baskonia. According to El Correo, the American guard has turned down a lucrative offer from Galatasaray, which will compete in the EuroCup next season. Besiktas had also previously shown interest in signing the player, but no agreement was reached.

Howard will therefore remain available to new head coach Paolo Galbiati and is set to begin his fifth season with Baskonia. The guard has already completed his medical examinations ahead of the new campaign and is expected to remain one of the team’s key players. Baskonia is preparing for a demanding season that will include EuroLeague, Liga Endesa and domestic cup competition.

18/08/202614:46

Bayern Munich part ways with Elias Harris and David McCormack

Bayern Munich have confirmed that Elias Harris and David McCormack will not return to the team for the 2026-27 season. Both players’ contracts have expired.

Harris spent four seasons in Munich, winning four trophies with the club. The 37-year-old power forward won the domestic double in 2024 and the German Cup in 2023.

He made 57 EuroLeague appearances for Bayern, scoring a career-best 17 points in the team’s win at FC Barcelona in March 2025. In the Bundesliga, Harris played 101 games, averaging 5.7 points per game.

BAYERN OPEN TO A NEW ROLE FOR HARRIS

Sporting director Thorsten Leibenath praised Harris for his contribution and revealed that the club is discussing a potential different role with him:

“Elias has given an enormous amount to this club over the past four years, and FC Bayern Basketball is extremely grateful to him for that. We are currently also in talks with him about a possible modified role. Whatever happens, Elias will always be welcome here.”

Harris suffered a serious injury during the 2025 playoff semifinals and only returned to the Bundesliga in May after 11 months on the sidelines.

DAVID MCCORMACK ALSO LEAVES

Bayern will also move on from David McCormack, who joined the club last summer.

The 2022 NCAA champion made 28 Bundesliga appearances, averaging 7.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.

He also played 28 EuroLeague games, averaging 6.9 points per game.

FIVE YOUNG PROSPECTS JOIN THE EXTENDED ROSTER

With Harris and McCormack departing, Bayern will bring five prospects from its development program into the extended first-team roster: Kilian Fischer, Niko Jerkic, Andrijia Susic, Caspar Vossenberg and Desmond Yiamu.

The five youngsters will continue to play a key role for Bayern’s second team in the ProB while working more closely with head coach Anton Gavel and the professional squad.

“The five young players earned this opportunity through their performances last season. They are expected to gain valuable experience while also providing the necessary competition in training,” Leibenath said.

Bayern also expects the prospects to potentially take on responsibility in selected competitive games.

18/08/202612:51

Galatasaray targeting Markus Howard

Galatasaray are preparing a major addition to their backcourt ahead of the 2026-27 season, with Markus Howard emerging as their top target.

According to Turkish reporter Can Bedel, the Istanbul club has been in intensive negotiations for around three weeks with Baskonia and Howard’s representatives.

 

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A final decision from the player is expected in the coming days. Should the former Denver Nuggets guard decide to leave the EuroLeague, Galatasaray would immediately open official negotiations with Baskonia regarding the buyout and transfer details.

Howard still has two years remaining on his contract with the Spanish club, having signed an extension after joining Baskonia from the NBA in 2022.

10.4 POINTS PER GAME IN THE EUROLEAGUE

Last season, Howard appeared in 23 EuroLeague games for Baskonia, averaging:

  • 10.4 points
  • 2.1 assists
  • 1.6 rebounds

in just over 20 minutes per game.

A potential move to Galatasaray would give the Istanbul club another major offensive weapon as they look to challenge for the Basketball Champions League title.

18/08/202612:28

Ondřej Balvín joins Tainan TSG GhostHawks

The Tainan TSG GhostHawks have announced the signing of Ondřej Balvín, a 217cm Czech center with extensive experience at the highest levels of European basketball.

Balvín spent several seasons in Spain’s Liga ACB, before also playing in China and Australia. During the 2023 NBL season, he was named both the league’s rebounding champion and blocks leader.

In 2025-26, Balvín played for the Hong Kong Bulls, continuing to build experience in Asian basketball.

 

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“I WANTED TO COMPLETE THE PARTNERSHIP”

Balvín had already been in contact with the GhostHawks last summer, but the move did not happen as he was close to signing with a Chinese team.

“Head coach Raoul Korner and the club’s basketball philosophy left a very good impression on me. That became one of the important factors in my decision this year and made me want to complete the partnership that we couldn’t complete last year.”

He also highlighted the growth of basketball in Taiwan:

“I’ve seen that Taiwanese basketball and the league are growing very quickly every year, and I’m really excited to become part of it.”

“I WILL BRING PHYSICALITY AND INTENSITY IN THE PAINT”

Balvín knows exactly what he can bring to his new team:

“I will bring physicality and intensity in the paint, take care of the rebounds and do the things a big man needs to do in the paint.”

He also believes his presence can create opportunities for his teammates:

“When opponents focus their defensive attention on me, I can also help my teammates find better offensive opportunities.”

KORNER: “HE GIVES US A PAINT PRESENCE WE LACKED”

Head coach Raoul Korner highlighted the combination of Balvín’s size and experience:

“Most of his professional career has been spent in Europe’s top ACB League, and he has very mature game experience.”

“At 217cm, he gives us a significant advantage in terms of size, while still having enough mobility to fit into our system.”

Korner also believes Balvín can address one of the team’s weaknesses from last season:

“His rebounding and shot-blocking ability will provide the interior presence and rim protection that we lacked last season.”

And there is another aspect of his game that stood out to the coach:

“For a player of his size, he is also a very good passer, and that is an essential skill for a big man in modern basketball.”

Balvín arrives in Taiwan with the goal of becoming a key piece of the GhostHawks’ frontcourt, bringing international experience, size, rebounding and rim protection.

18/08/202612:26

Aurimas Majauskas joins Força Lleida

Força Lleida and Aurimas Majauskas have reached an agreement for the Lithuanian forward-center to join iLERNA Lleida. The contract will be non-guaranteed and, if ultimately validated, would keep the player with the club through June 2027.

Last season, Majauskas played for Neptunas in Lithuania’s top division, appearing in 22 league games and averaging 7.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and a 10.1 efficiency rating in 19 minutes per game.

He also competed in European competitions with Neptunas, averaging 8.6 points, 3.2 rebounds and a 9.7 efficiency rating in 19 minutes per game.

A LONG INTERNATIONAL CAREER

Majauskas has built an extensive career across several countries.

He played in Lithuania with Matinga Juod, in the United States with the Sam Houston Bearkats in the NCAA, and later with Dynamic Balkan Bet and Vytis Sakiai.

His career then took him to Iceland with Njardvik, Ukraine with Zaporizhye, England with the London Lions, before returning to Lithuania with BC Jonava and, most recently, Neptunas.

18/08/202611:24

New Visa rules for non-EU players creating delays for French clubs during preseason

Patrick Beverley will have to wait before joining Boulazac. The 38-year-old former NBA guard is expected to arrive between late August and early September, once the administrative procedures and visa process have been completed.

But Beverley’s situation is part of a much wider issue affecting French basketball.

THE NEW VISA PROCEDURE IS CAUSING DELAYS

American players must now obtain their visa BEFORE entering France.

The procedure has changed significantly. Previously, American players could enter France and complete the necessary paperwork with the local prefecture.

Now, the visa must be obtained in the United States before the player travels to France.

Maine Libre quoted Le Mans administrative director Arnaud Leproux:

“The regulations have changed. Previously, American players arrived in France and we regularized their paperwork at the prefecture in Le Mans. Now, the visa has to be obtained in advance in the United States.”

MOSES WOOD: VISA RECEIVED AT THE LAST MINUTE

The new procedure also affected Moses Wood’s arrival at Le Mans.

“Our latest signing, Moses Wood, only received his visa last Thursday, August 6. It was extremely tight.”

Leproux also highlighted the logistical difficulties, with some players living hundreds of kilometers from French consulates in the United States.

DIJON ALSO STARTED PRESEASON WITHOUT TWO AMERICANS

JDA Dijon began its preseason without Silas Melson and Kevion Taylor, who were also delayed by the administrative procedures required to enter France.

The consequences are not only administrative.

DELAYED ARRIVALS MEAN DELAYED PREPARATION

Clubs are now having to deal with:

  • Delayed integration into the team
  • Delayed physical preparation
  • Tactical work without the complete roster
  • Less time to build chemistry before the season

The new visa procedure is therefore becoming a significant factor in the preparation of French clubs ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Source: BeBasket / Le Maine Libre

18/08/202610:55

Tyrus McGee joins Taipei Taishin Mars

The Taipei Taishin Mars have announced the signing of Tyrus McGee, a 35-year-old American guard who stands 188 cm tall and can play both guard positions.

McGee brings extensive international experience, having played in Spain, Germany, Italy, Turkey, Israel, France and China, while winning six championships throughout his professional career.

BACK-TO-BACK TITLES IN ITALY

McGee arrives in Taiwan after winning consecutive Serie A2 championships with two different teams.

In 2024-25, McGee played for Cantù and was instrumental in the LNP Cup Final Four, scoring 29 points in the semifinal and 27 points with 4 rebounds in the final, leading his team to the trophy and earning Final Four MVP honors.

He then helped Cantù win the Serie A2 championship, securing promotion to Italy’s top division.

In 2025-26, McGee joined Tezenis Verona, also in Serie A2, and averaged 15.3 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists during the regular season, while shooting an impressive 44% from three-point range.

He also scored 30 points in back-to-back games, shooting over 60% from the field in both.

Verona ultimately won the championship as well, giving McGee back-to-back titles with two different teams.

“I WANT TO BE SOMEONE MY TEAMMATES CAN TRUST”

McGee explained his role and goals for his new adventure:

“I know this is a very young team, and my job is not only to score. I want to help the team grow together.”

“I want to be someone my teammates can trust, whether that’s scoring, defending or creating offense.”

His personal goal is straightforward:

“My individual goals are to stay healthy and maintain consistent performances, but most importantly, to win a championship with the Taishin Mars.”

“HE CAN GIVE US MORE OFFENSIVE OPTIONS”

Taipei Taishin Mars COO Yang Sheng-kai highlighted McGee’s ability to create pressure with the ball:

“McGee can create more threats with the ball and give us different offensive options.”

The club also praised his team-first mentality and professionalism:

“Beyond his scoring ability, we highly value his team-oriented mindset and professional attitude. We believe he can help the team reach a new level.”

A NEW ADVENTURE IN TAIWAN

This will be McGee’s first experience playing in Taiwan, and the American guard is excited about the opportunity:

“I’ve heard that Taiwan is a great country. I can’t wait for the season to start, join the team and prepare for the new season with my teammates.”

After playing in numerous countries throughout his career, McGee is also looking forward to experiencing Taiwan’s culture, food and people.

18/08/202610:44

Yoan Makoundou nearing Barcelona move

Barcelona are finalizing an agreement to sign Yoan Makoundou, according to BasketNews sources.

The 26-year-old French forward/center stands 2.07 meters tall and had already been a Barcelona target last season, although the deal could not be completed at the time.

This time, Makoundou is set to join Barcelona, with Gabriel Pantel-Jouve of BeBasket being the first to report the negotiations.

A SEASON SPLIT BETWEEN CHINA AND MONACO

Makoundou arrives after spending last season between China and AS Monaco.

During his stint in China, Makoundou averaged 15.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.5 blocks and 0.6 steals per game, shooting 57% from two-point range.

He later returned to AS Monaco, where he averaged 10.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 0.7 steals in 20 minutes per game in the French league.

He was particularly efficient from the field, shooting 65% from two and 44% from three.

FIVE EUROLEAGUE APPEARANCES

The French big man also made five EuroLeague appearances with Monaco.

Makoundou averaged 6.2 points and 1.8 rebounds in just eight minutes per game across his five EuroLeague appearances.

His versatility and ability to contribute at both forward and center are among the qualities that have led Barcelona to return to a player they had already targeted last season.

18/08/202609:38

Lamar Patterson joins the Illawarra Hawks

The Illawarra Hawks are set to sign Lamar Patterson on a one-year injury replacement contract for the NBL27 season, pending league approval.

A THIRD TEAM PUSHING THE ROSTER

Patterson and Kyle Adnam will raise the intensity of the Hawks’ daily practices.

Like Adnam, Patterson will be available as an injury replacement if the Hawks need cover during the season.

His impact, however, will begin immediately in practice, where the two veterans will lead a third team alongside development players Amarco Doyle, Fletch MacDonald and Brodie McGregor.

 

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A TWO-TIME ALL-NBL FIRST TEAM PLAYER

Patterson was selected to the All-NBL First Team in both 2019 and 2020.

Patterson entered the NBL with the Brisbane Bullets in NBL19 and immediately made an impact, earning back-to-back All-NBL First Team selections in NBL19 and NBL20.

After a short stint with the New Zealand Breakers, he returned to Brisbane for NBL21.

His résumé also includes college basketball at Pittsburgh, being selected in the 2014 NBA Draft and playing 44 NBA games with the Atlanta Hawks.

He later played in the G League and overseas in Türkiye, Portugal and Italy, where he won the Italian Cup in 2018. He was also a scoring champion in China that same year.

STILL SCORING AT 35

Patterson joins the Hawks after an MVP season with Ipswich Force in NBL1 North.

In 2025, Patterson was named NBL1 North MVP, scoring champion and All-Star First Team with Ipswich Force.

In his most recent playoff series against the Gold Coast Rollers, he scored:

  • 32 points on 52% shooting in Game 1
  • 40 points on 64% shooting in Game 2

All at 35 years old.

AN OFFENSIVE WEAPON FOR JUSTIN TATUM

Experience, scoring and playmaking give Patterson another valuable option for the Hawks.

At 196cm and 100kg, Patterson brings a physical and versatile wing who can score in volume, create for teammates and take on offensive responsibility.

Before an injury ended his NBL26 season after nine games with Brisbane, Patterson had also scored 17 points against the Hawks.

BY THE NUMBERS

Age: 35
Height: 196cm
Weight: 100kg
From: Lancaster, Pennsylvania
College: Pittsburgh
NBL26: 9.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.0 assists in 9 games
NBL Honours: All-NBL First Team, NBL19 and NBL20
NBL1 North 2025: MVP, scoring champion, All-Star First Team

18/08/202609:02

Trabzonspor agreed to terms with Isaiah Canaan

Trabzonspor have reached an agreement with Isaiah Canaan, a 1991-born, 1.83-meter scoring guard with extensive NBA and EuroLeague experience, Basketfaul reports.

The deal will become official once Canaan passes his medical examination, an important step after the serious injury he suffered last season. He returned to action toward the end of the campaign.

235 NBA GAMES

Houston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Phoenix, Minnesota and Milwaukee were his NBA teams between 2013 and 2019.

Canaan played 235 NBA games between 2013 and 2019, averaging 8.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 20.4 minutes per game.

During his NBA career, he represented the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, Chicago Bulls, Phoenix Suns, Minnesota Timberwolves and Milwaukee Bucks.

FOUR EUROLEAGUE SEASONS

Canaan moved to Europe in 2019 and eventually established himself as a EuroLeague player.

After leaving the NBA, Canaan continued his career in Europe, playing for UNICS Kazan and Galatasaray before joining Olympiacos and Crvena zvezda.

He spent a total of four seasons in the EuroLeague with the two clubs.

18/08/202608:54

Yiğit Mehmet Okur joins Barcelona

Yiğit Mehmet Okur, the son of former Turkish star Mehmet Okur, has joined Barcelona.

Born in 2010, the young prospect began his basketball development in the United States before moving to Europe and joining one of the continent’s biggest clubs.

IMPRESSED AT THE U16 EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP

Okur recently attracted significant attention at the FIBA U16 European Championship, averaging 9.4 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, while shooting an impressive 41.9% from three-point range.

The forward has particularly stood out for his shooting ability and will now continue his development within Barcelona’s youth setup.

A POTENTIAL TURKISH EL CLÁSICO

His move to Barcelona could set up a future battle against Ömer Kutluay, another highly regarded Turkish prospect at Real Madrid.

Another young Turkish talent, Ömer Kutluay, currently plays for Real Madrid.

That means future youth and U22 El Clásico matchups between Real Madrid and Barcelona could potentially feature two Turkish prospects facing each other on opposite sides of the biggest rivalry in Spanish basketball.

18/08/202608:50

Milko Bjelica joins Mladost Zemun as new sporting director

KK Mladost Zemun have officially announced Milko Bjelica as their new sporting director.

Bjelica joins the club with extensive playing experience, a high-level career and deep basketball knowledge.

His arrival is part of Mladost Zemun’s goal of continuing to build a stable club, with a particular focus on working with players and creating the foundations for future success.

The club believes Bjelica’s experience and energy will make an important contribution to its continued development.

 

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18/08/202607:43

TyTy Washington in Advanced Talks with ASVEL: NBA Point Guard Nears EuroLeague Move

TyTy Washington could be on his way to Europe. According to BasketNews sources, the 24-year-old point guard is in advanced talks with ASVEL Villeurbanne, with the French club showing strong interest in bringing him to EuroLeague.

The potential move would mark Washington’s first experience in the EuroLeague, while ASVEL would add an NBA-caliber guard to its roster ahead of Tony Parker’s first season as a EuroLeague head coach.

TyTy Washington’s NBA Career

Washington has appeared in 74 NBA games throughout his career, representing the Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks, Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Clippers.

Across those appearances, he has averaged 2.9 points and 1.1 assists in nine minutes per game.

His role was particularly limited during the 2025-26 season with the Clippers, where he averaged 1.3 points and 1.1 assists in fewer than six minutes per game.

Strong Production in the G League

Washington’s most impressive numbers have come in the G League.

During the 2025-26 season, he averaged 19.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game, while shooting 41% from three-point range.

Across four G League seasons, Washington has posted averages of 20.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists and 1.3 steals, shooting 38% from beyond the arc.

From Kentucky to the NBA

Washington entered the NBA after one season at Kentucky, where he was considered a five-star prospect.

In January 2022, he recorded 17 points and 17 assists in a single game, breaking Kentucky’s single-game assists record previously held by John Wall.

He was selected 29th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, although his draft rights changed hands several times before he even established himself in the league.

A New Opportunity in Europe

After being waived by Oklahoma City, Washington continued his NBA career through two-way contracts with the Milwaukee Bucks, Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Clippers.

A move to ASVEL could now give him the opportunity to take on a much larger role and showcase his abilities on the European stage.

For Tony Parker and ASVEL, Washington could become another important piece as the club prepares for a new chapter in the EuroLeague.

Source: BasketNews

17/08/202621:48

Houston Rockets agree to two-way deal with Sean Pedulla

The Houston Rockets have agreed to a two-way deal with Sean Pedulla, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported, citing the player’s agent George S. Langberg.

Pedulla arrives in Houston after a standout season in the G League. The 23-year-old averaged 23.6 points, 6.8 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game last season, earning G League Rookie of the Year honors.

The two-way contract will give Pedulla an opportunity to join the Rockets organization while continuing his development between the NBA and G League.

17/08/202616:30

Ognjen Dobric defends Marko Guduric after Serbia’s EuroBasket disappointment

Ognjen Dobric reflected on Serbia’s disappointing EuroBasket campaign, which ended with a Round of 16 elimination against Finland after the team entered the tournament as the clear favorite. Speaking on the “6,75” podcast, as reported by Sport Klub, Dobric also defended Marko Guduric and Vasilije Micic from the criticism they received following Serbia’s early exit.

“They were the ones people criticized the most,” Dobric said about Guduric and Micic. He then addressed Svetislav Pesic’s system: “Kari’s system is: not many dribbles. You play pick-and-roll with two or three dribbles and find a solution. That doesn’t suit them. They like to go left, right, play one pick, then another, then a third. And Kari doesn’t like that.”

According to Dobric, Guduric and Micic often struggled to find their rhythm within the demands of Serbia’s system. However, the most significant comments concerned the physical condition of the Olimpia Milano player.

“Guduric obviously wants to, but the man can’t even walk because of his Achilles tendon, due to chronic problems he has been carrying for years, since his youth days. Yet he has always answered the call-up and gives everything he has,” Dobric said.

It was a strong defense of Guduric, shifting the focus from his performances to his commitment. According to his national team teammate, Guduric never held back despite dealing with long-term physical problems.

17/08/202612:48

Alex Ducas joins Balkan Botevgrad

Balkan Botevgrad have announced the signing of Alex Ducas, with the Australian wing set to add shooting, athleticism and international experience to the Bulgarian club.

Ducas became an NBA champion with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2025, becoming the ninth Australian-born player to win an NBA championship. During the 2024-25 season, he appeared in 21 NBA games for OKC, averaging 1.7 points and 1.2 rebounds per game.

 

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A strong college career at Saint Mary’s

Before reaching the NBA, Ducas spent five seasons at Saint Mary’s, where he developed into a reliable perimeter shooter.

He finished his college career averaging 9.0 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game, while shooting 40.6% from three-point range.

After going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, Ducas signed a two-way contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder and eventually became part of the franchise’s championship-winning roster.

A new chapter in Bulgaria

Following his stint with the Brisbane Bullets in the NBL, Ducas is now heading to Bulgaria for a new European challenge with Balkan Botevgrad.

The club will count on his shooting ability, athleticism and experience as it prepares for a historic BKT EuroCup debut.

17/08/202610:34

Markis McDuffie becomes Maccabi Ashdod’s fifth import

Maccabi Rottstein Ashdod have announced the signing of Markis McDuffie, a 2.03m, 29-year-old forward who has agreed to a one-year deal.

McDuffie becomes the team’s fifth import, joining Augustine Rubit, Isaiah Hill, Robert Turner and Kodos Wahab.

Extensive experience across Europe’s top leagues

After playing college basketball at Wichita State, McDuffie built an extensive European résumé, competing in several of the continent’s major leagues, including Italy, France and Turkey.

His first European stop was Hungary, before moving to Udine in Italy’s second division, where he averaged an impressive 20.4 points per game.

His performances earned him a move to the Italian top flight with Napoli, where he continued to produce at a high level, averaging 14.5 points and 4.5 rebounds.

He then joined French club Dijon, finishing the season with 16.9 points and 5.8 rebounds per game across 35 appearances.

From Turkey back to Italy

McDuffie’s next stop was Türk Telekom in Turkey before he moved to Pesaro during the 2023-24 season.

He again put up strong numbers in Italy, averaging 16.3 points and 6.3 rebounds, earning a place on the Italian League Second Team.

After returning to Dijon, McDuffie spent last season with another French club, Nancy, averaging 6.1 points and 2.4 rebounds per game.

Nati Cohen: “He completes the puzzle we wanted”

Club sporting director Nati Cohen highlighted the qualities McDuffie will bring to Ashdod:

“Marquis brings a lot of experience from the top European leagues. Everywhere he has played, he has brought a lot of energy, athleticism, high-level individual skills and rebounding.”

Cohen believes the signing completes the roster the club had planned:

“Marquis completes the puzzle we wanted and we are very happy with the roster we have built, especially considering the budget we are working with and without taking unnecessary risks or adventures.”

17/08/202610:29

Vladimir Micov returns to Metalac Valjevo as sports director

Vladimir Micov has officially returned to Metalac Valjevo, where he will once again serve as sporting director.

The former player previously held the position before his spell with Galatasaray. Following a long playing career that included stints with Partizan, Budućnost, CSKA Moscow and Olimpia Milano, Micov is now returning to Serbian basketball in an executive role.

His main objective will be to contribute to the growth and long-term stability of the club, which finished 10th in the KLS during the 2025-26 season with a 13-17 record.

17/08/202610:26

Luca Illes joins Cluj-Napoca on loan from Partizan

U-BT Cluj-Napoca have signed Luca Illes on loan from Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade for the 2026-27 season.

The 19-year-old guard, who stands 1.95m tall, spent last season with KK Metalac Valjevo, averaging 6.0 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 18 minutes per game across 30 Serbian League appearances.

Growing through the Partizan academy

Illes began his career in Romania with CSS Bega Timisoara and ACS Transilvania before joining the Partizan academy in 2021 at just 14 years old.

He spent three and a half years in Partizan’s youth system and captained the club’s U17 team to the 2024 national championship.

Illes was named MVP and top scorer of the finals, averaging an impressive 23.7 points per game.

Obradovic gave him his first-team opportunity

In the 2024-25 season, Zeljko Obradovic called Illes up to train with Partizan’s first team.

He subsequently signed a four-year professional contract with the Serbian club.

In January 2025, Illes joined Mega Basket on loan for the remainder of the season and also competed in the adidas NextGen EuroLeague Finals in Abu Dhabi.

A key contributor for Romania U20

Illes has represented Romania at both the U16 and U20 levels.

Most recently, he played at the U20 European Championship in Slovenia, where he led Romania in rebounding with 6.6 rebounds per game and finished second on the team in scoring at 10.6 points per game.

Silvasan: “He is a talented player and a hard worker”

Cluj-Napoca head coach Mihai Silvasan welcomed the arrival of the young Romanian:

“He is a talented Romanian player who has spent the last few years in Serbia. Essentially, he grew up at Partizan Belgrade and is their player. I’m happy that he decided to join us.”

Silvasan also stressed the importance of the move for Illes’ development:

“He is a player who must establish himself first and foremost, but from everything I know about him, he is a very good person and a hard worker.”

Regarding his new roster, Silvasan added:

“I am very pleased with the roster we have assembled, and we can’t wait to truly get started with the work and begin playing games.”

Source: EuroLeague Basketball

17/08/202609:58

Derrick Williams at SUNEL Arena: AEK Athens reach agreement

AEK Athens have reached an agreement with Derrick Williams, with the experienced American forward already in Greece and visiting SUNEL Arena.

Williams, 35, was selected second overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves and went on to play seven seasons in the NBA, appearing in 428 regular-season games.

A wealth of NBA and European experience

After his NBA career, Williams built an extensive résumé in European basketball, playing for clubs including Bayern Munich, Fenerbahce, Valencia, Maccabi Tel Aviv and Panathinaikos.

He enjoyed one of his most productive European seasons with Panathinaikos in 2022-23, averaging 12.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game.

Williams most recently played in South Korea with the Suwon KT Sonicboom.

His experience and versatility are expected to add another important piece to AEK’s roster as the club prepares for the upcoming season.

Source: AEK BC / Sport24

16/08/202620:53

Simas Jasaitis stays with Orlandina Basket

The relationship between Simas Jasaitis and Capo d’Orlando is more than just a basketball story. It is a story of belonging, shared values, and goals achieved together. A story that is destined to continue.

Infodrive Capo d’Orlando is delighted to announce that it has reached an agreement to renew Simas Jasaitis’ contract, meaning the Lithuanian will wear the blue-and-white jersey again for the 2026/2027 season.

For the Lithuanian champion, it will be his fourth consecutive season in Capo d’Orlando since his return in the summer of 2023.

His renewal represents much more than a simple roster move. Simas has become one of the symbols of Orlandina’s resurgence in recent years: a key figure in the team’s Serie B Interregionale championship victory in the 2023/2024 season and a central part of the club’s growth, which has seen Orlandina establish itself among the top teams in Serie B Nazionale.

A player with extraordinary international experience, Jasaitis has enjoyed a remarkable career on some of Europe’s most prestigious stages. After coming through the ranks at Lietuvos Rytas, he won titles and trophies with clubs such as Maccabi Tel Aviv, Baskonia and Lokomotiv Kuban, winning two EuroCup titles as well as numerous domestic championships. With the Lithuanian national team, he won bronze medals at the 2007 EuroBasket and the 2010 FIBA World Cup, while also taking part in two editions of the Olympic Games.

However, the relationship between Simas and Capo d’Orlando began well before his return in 2023. During the 2015/2016 season in Serie A, the Lithuanian star left an indelible mark on the club’s recent history, playing a decisive role in securing survival and immediately winning the hearts of the Orlandina fans.

Eight years later, his return became one of the most emotional chapters in Orlandina Basket’s recent history. Since then, season after season, Simas has continued to demonstrate his technical ability, leadership and winning mentality on the court, becoming an indispensable figure in the locker room and a daily example for the younger players.

The confirmation of Simas Jasaitis gives Infodrive Capo d’Orlando not only talent, experience and basketball quality, but also a man who perfectly embodies the club’s values: professionalism, sacrifice, belonging and ambition.

Simas Jasaitis said:

“There are places where you truly feel at home, and Capo d’Orlando is certainly one of them.

I am really happy to play another season with Orlandina Basket.

Age is just a number when your passion for the game and your love for this Club and these fans are so strong and genuine. Thank you to the management, my teammates and the fans for their great and continued trust.

Let’s make the next one a season to remember!

Forza Orlandina always! 💙”

Sporting Director Antonio Sapone said:

“We are delighted to see Simas back on the court in our jersey for another season.

It is true that his presence means much more than any technical consideration, and the wonderful bond between him, the Club and the city should make the entire Orlandina community proud. However, I would also like to emphasize that we are talking about a champion of this sport, who will continue his playing career for another season because he is still absolutely capable of making a difference on the court.

Once again, it will be a privilege for the Club and its fans.”

15/08/202621:46

Toyama Grouses Add Aamir Simms and Darral Willis Jr.

Toyama Grouses have announced the signing of two new frontcourt players, Aamir Simms and Darral Willis Jr.

Both players have signed contracts for the upcoming B.LEAGUE season.

Simms leaves Italy after spending two seasons with Reyer Venezia and one with Napoli, where in 2025/26 he produced 9.7 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game.

Willis, meanwhile, spent the 2024/25 season in Greece with Aris, averaging more than 11 points and 6 rebounds per game.

15/08/202621:32

Eric Paschall signs with Bambitious Nara

Eric Paschall is a new player of Bambitious Nara, as announced by the Japanese team.

The former Villanova forward spent last year in the Chinese NBL between Hebei Xianglan and Hubei Wenlv.

Previously Paschall played in Italy with Pistoia.

15/08/202621:20

Lindell Wigginton Joins Shanxi Loongs

Lindell Wigginton will remain in the CBA, where he will play for the Shanxi Loongs next season.

The 28-year-old Canadian point guard/shooting guard has spent the last three seasons in China, consistently putting up strong numbers.

In 2025/26, Wigginton averaged 23.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 6.4 assists per game for the Guangzhou Loong Lions.

15/08/202620:17

Pallacanestro Trieste reportedly interested in Robert Franks

According to La Prealpina Robert Franks is among the main options being considered by Pallacanestro Trieste for the power forward position.

The 29-year-old former Washington State standout has spent the last five seasons playing in Australia and Japan.

In 2025/26, with the Ibaraki Robots, Franks averaged 17.1 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game, shooting 49% from the field, 40% from three-point range on more than five attempts per game, and 75% from the free-throw line.

15/08/202619:24

JD Notae Reportedly Set for Medicals With Manresa  

Following his separation from Trabzonspor, JD Notae could be back in action immediately with Manresa.

The American guard is set to undergo medical examinations with the Spanish club, which is expected to sign him if the results are positive.

Notae last appeared in an official game on February 28, when he played for Trapani.

15/08/202619:08

Partizan learns from its mistakes: Jabari Parker will train with the team

Jabari Parker will be among the players Joan Peñarroya calls up for the beginning of Partizan’s preseason, according to Sport Klub.

The Serbian club appears determined not to repeat last season’s situation with Iffe Lundberg, opting instead to have Parker work with the team while his future remains unresolved.

 

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The biggest contract in Partizan history

Parker joined Partizan from Barcelona last summer, signing a two-year deal that was reportedly the most lucrative contract in the club’s history.

The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft was expected to be a major addition, but his first season in Belgrade fell well short of expectations.

He finished the campaign on loan at Joventut Badalona, with the Spanish club covering only a small portion of his substantial salary.

Parker is not part of Peñarroya’s plans

The situation remains complicated.

Parker reportedly does not want to remain in Serbia, while Peñarroya does not appear to consider him part of his plans for the new project.

However, Parker is still under contract with Partizan.

As a result, he will begin preseason training with the rest of the squad and remain with the team until a definitive solution is reached in a saga that has been ongoing for several months.

Disappointing EuroLeague numbers

Parker appeared in 15 EuroLeague games last season, averaging just 7.7 points and 2.5 rebounds per game.

Those numbers were well below expectations for a player with his NBA résumé, having previously played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards, Atlanta Hawks, Sacramento Kings and Boston Celtics.

Partizan wants to avoid another Lundberg situation

Partizan’s decision to keep Parker with the team also appears to be linked to the club’s desire to avoid a repeat of the Iffe Lundberg situation.

Despite still being under contract last season, Lundberg was sent to Denmark to train individually, continuing to receive his salary away from the team until eventually transferring to Maccabi Tel Aviv.

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