Name: Crvena Zvezda vs. Partizan: It's game day!
Channel: Euroleague Basketball

KK Crvena zvezda (5-5) and KK Partizan (2-8) go to battle in Round 11's Rivalry Series game, but which team do the Euroleague.net experts – Geoff Gillingham, Javier Gancedo, Igor Petrinovic and Frankie Sachs – think will come out on top?

Rivalry Series: Predicting the winner of Crvena Zvezda vs. Partizan

Basketball fans are in for a treat this Thursday night as [Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade/red/) (5-5) and [Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/partizan-mozzart-bet-belgrade/par/) (2-8) go to battle in Round 11's Rivalry Series game. Ahead of the Belgrade derby, which team do the [Euroleague.net](http://Euroleague.net) experts think will come out on top?

[Geoff Gillingham](https://bsky.app/profile/geoffgillingham.bsky.social), [Javier Gancedo](https://x.com/ganchetto), [Igor Petrinovic](https://x.com/IgorPetrinovic) and [Frankie Sachs](https://x.com/MrEuroleague) have all predicted their winner in this Rivalry Series matchup.

##### Remember, you can submit your vote via the poll at the bottom of the page.

**Geoff:** Derbies often throw up strange results. Partizan has lost six straight games in the EuroLeague and pressure is starting to mount on nine-time EuroLeague champion coach Zeljko Obradovic. Zvezda, on the other hand, fell to defeat last time out but is enjoying a much better season than its cross-city neighbors. Still, even though I have been pleasantly surprised by the emergence of Mitar Bosnjakovic and the improvement in Aleksej Pokusevski, I can’t see past Zvezda in this one. This feels like a game where Codi Miller-McIntyre, Filip Petrusev and Nikola Kalinic should shine, so I’m going with the red-and-white half of Belgrade in this one.

Geoff’s prediction: **Zvezda to win by 8 points, Miller-McIntyre to get his first double-double of the season.**

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="und" dir="ltr">Од рођења мог… 🔴⚪️<br><br>EuroLeague R11 | BC Crvena zvezda Meridianbet - BC Partizan 🏀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kkcz?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kkcz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreTheTeam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreTheTeam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EveryGameMatters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EveryGameMatters</a> <a href="https://t.co/lFecm8yNx7">pic.twitter.com/lFecm8yNx7</a></p>&mdash; KK Crvena zvezda Meridianbet (@kkcrvenazvezda) <a href="https://twitter.com/kkcrvenazvezda/status/1859168116703461422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

**Igor:** Crvena Zvezda and Partizan have treated us to four fantastic games over the past two seasons, and despite Partizan's losing streak coming into this game, I believe we are in for another treat. Zvezda comes in as the favorite for several reasons, the main reason being it will have an overwhelming support of its fans. It has also performed better offensively and defensively than Partizan this season. Its players have more experience in Belgrade derbies, and Zvezda has won seven straight games in all competitions against Partizan. However, no Partizan player available for this contest has been part of those seven straight losses against Zvezda. Also, despite a 2-8 record, Partizan's seven defeats have come by 8 points or fewer. This game can really go any way, and I can see Partizan hitting its long-distance shots and stealing the win from its archrival. Partizan by 4.

Igor's prediction: **Partizan by 4.**

**Javi:** It is one of the most unpredictable games of the season, even though Zvezda seems to be in much better form and has three more wins in the standings. Zvezda has been without Joel Bolomboy for a while but has been able to adjust by giving Uros Plavsic and recently signed Filip Petrusev extended playing time. In that sense, Partizan has an advantage in the paint with Tyrique Jones and Brandon Davies. Most Partizan players have never experienced a Serbian derby in the EuroLeague and that gives Zvezda the edge, as players like Milos Teodosic, Nikola Kalinic and Luka Mitrovic know exactly to play in this particular game.

Javi's prediction: **Zvezda by double digits.**

**Frankie:** Partizan is just too good to lose seven in a row. The team is too talented to share the worst record in the league. And it’s a team that should only be getting better from week to week. Thus far, Zvezda deserves a ton of respect for the way it has started the season and for how Coach Sfairolpoulos has gotten the most out of his roster. Over time, though, talent should win out. If Frank Ntilikina had made a few clutch shots, we would be looking differently at Partizan. And he is nonetheless shooting well (43.8%) from downtown. Aleksej Pokusevski is on the rise. Teenager Mitar Bosnjakovic is finding his way. Isiaha Mike has joined the rotation. And while all eyes may be on Zvezda’s Codi Miller-McIntyre, I’d keep an eye on Carlik Jones.

Frankie's prediction: **Partizan pulls it out in a nailbiter to turn its season around.** 

Game News

The two archenemies go head to head in the Serbian capital on Thursday night (20:00 CET)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2024-11-21T19:00:00.000Z)

This Thursday night, KK Crvena zvezda and KK Partizan face off in the fifth edition of the EuroLeague's Belgrade derby.

Crvena Zvezda vs. Partizan: It's game day!

Get ready for another thrilling installment of the Belgrade derby as Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade hosts Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade in Round 11's Rivalry Series game this Thursday night.

Zvezda comes into this contest with a 5-5 record and has won two of its last three games in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague, while Partizan is riding a six-game losing streak and holds a 2-8 record.

To date, Zvezda and Partizan have two wins apiece in this derby in the EuroLeague – they went 1-1 in 2022-23 and 1-1 in 2023-24 – but who will move 3-2 ahead in this series?

The action gets underway at 20:00 CET on EuroLeague TV, so make sure that you have a couple of hours set aside tonight. And get some popcorn, too.

This Thursday night sees Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade and Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade go head to head in the Belgrade derby in Round 11 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season.

The Belgrade derby tips off this Thursday night at 20:00 CET

Fenerbahce league remained undefeated on the road after shaking off a double-figure deficit in the fourth quarter at Virtus Segafredo Bologna to claim an 82-86 triumph. 

Fenerbahce found a way to win despite 'frustrated' Saras

It wasn’t how [coach Sarunas Jasikevicius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/jasikevicius-saras/?season=E2024) drew it up. But it counts just the same as a victory for [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/).

The team with the best record in the league remained undefeated on the road after shaking off a double-figure deficit in the fourth quarter at [Virtus Segafredo Bologna](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/virtus-segafredo-bologna/vir/) to claim an [82-86 triumph](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-pulls-out-82-86-win-in-bologna/).

"Frustrated is not the correct word. It’s 10 times more," Jasikevicius said on EuroLeague TV after the game about his team’s performance. "I don’t even know what to say… I don’t understand anything about basketball."

Saras continued: "The way we played today, probably in the fourth quarter, the players stopped listening to me and that was probably when they played their best basketball. And that is probably how we are going to sum up the whole night."

Guduric, Hayes-Davis stepped up late in Bologna

There is no arguing that the fourth quarter is when Fenerbahce played its best basketball. In the final stanza, it outscored Virtus 21-30. Over the game’s final 5 minutes, it was 7-20. Of those 20 points, all but three of them were scored by two men: [Marko Guduric](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/marko-guduric/004004/) and [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/).

With three star guards sidelined by injury, Fenerbahce was not itself and needed players to step up. [Bonzie Colson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/bonzie-colson/009783/) did so at times and finished with 18 points and 8 rebounds. [Khem Birch](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/khem-birch/007182/) (8 points, 6 rebounds) made several key plays. And [Tarik Biberovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tarik-biberovic/006961/) (11 points) came through with 3 critical free throws late.

But the heroes were Guduric and Hayes-Davis. And even Coach Jasikevicius knew to credit them afterward.

Game Videos

"Probably Marko did everything exactly how I didn’t ask him to do," Saras said. "Probably that’s why we won today. Because he found a solution."

Those solutions included being aggressive in attacking the Virtus defense, whether getting to the rim, pulling up to shoot or finding Hayes-Davis for open looks. The result was Guduric's best game this season as he finished with 21 points on 4-of-7 three-point shooting, which were both season-highs.  

"Nigel has been playing at this level now for the whole season. With the issues we are having, Nigel is carrying us. He is playing at an MVP level," Jasikevicius continued.  

The issues are the injuries to Scottie Wilbekin, Wade Baldwin and Devon Hall. And the response has been Hayes-Davis scoring at least 18 points in six straight games – all of them Fenerbahce wins. He made 5 of 6 triples against Virtus to take his season-long average from deep up to 50% (32 for 64). Hayes-Davis finished with 19 points and 8 rebounds for a PIR of 25.   

While Fenerbahce shot 39.4% from downtown for the game, take Guduric and Hayes-Davis away and that number plummets to 20%.

Guduric, though, wasn’t taking the credit.  

"I don’t know how we pulled this one out, but I am extremely happy for this win. Another road win. It’s huge in the EuroLeague. Big shot by Nigel in the end to close the game out," he said.

Not only did Guduric shine a light on Hayes-Davis, but he then focused on the late stops the team made: "In the fourth quarter we played much better defense. We changed the coverage, so that was a good thing for us. And then we just hit some shots."

In the end, it may have frustrated their coach not to win the way he wanted, but Fenerbahce did what championship teams do. They relied on their leaders. Made plays. And found a way to win.

That is why Fenerbahce sits atop the standings. And that is why the other championship contenders should take notice.  

Marko Guduric: 'I don’t know how we pulled this one out'

Though not in tip-top form, the league leaders remained unbeaten on the road 

Virtus Segafredo Bologna v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2024-11-20T19:30:00.000Z)

Virtus Segafredo Bologna-Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul | RS Round 11 Highlights | 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul guard Marko Guduric spoke to EuroLeague TV after his team beat Virtus Segafredo Bologna in Round 11 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season.  

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul erased a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter to sting Virtus Segafredo Bologna 82-86 at Unipol Arena in Bologna for the team’s sixth straight win. 

Fenerbahce pulls out 82-86 win in Bologna

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul erased a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter to sting Virtus Segafredo Bologna 82-86 at Unipol Arena in Bologna for the team’s sixth straight win. Fenerbahce remained in first place and improved to 9-2 on the season, while Virtus lost its third in a row to fall to 2-9. The visitors finished the game on a 5-13 run.

Marko Guduric scored 9 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter to lead Fenerbahce and Nigel Hayes-Davis netted 10 of his 19 in the final stanza, including the go-ahead triple. Bonzie Colson added 18 points and, like Hayes-Davis, collected 8 rebounds. Tarik Biberovic contributed 11. Virtus’s Toko Shengelia scored a game-high 23 points in defeat. Ante Zizic netted 18 points, Matt Morgan 14 and Isaia Cordinier 10.

Zizic thumped home a dunk to open the scoring before Colson got Fenerbahce on the scoreboard. The visitors feasted on the offensive glass with their first three baskets coming on second chances, including a Biberovic triple to make it 5-7. Shengelia heated up for the hosts and Zizic’s put back and free throws put Virtus ahead, 14-10, midway through the opening quarter. Hayes-Davis and Colson nailed threes in a 0-8 push as Fenerbahce pulled back in front. Zizic drew the hosts within1 before Guduric and Morgan traded threes to end the quarter at 22-23.

Morgan tied it early in the second quarter and Achille Polonara’s put-back gave the hosts a 29-27 edge. The game became more physical with Khem Birch playing a big role for the visitors. Points were few and far between before Colson netted a three to make it 31-32. Shengelia continued to wreak havoc as he banked in a basket. After a jumper by Biberovic, Will Clyburn scored to give Virtus a 38-37 halftime edge.

Zizic remained a force for Virtus as he tossed in a hook shot and later drew Sertac Sanli’s third foul and added a free throw, but Hayes-Davis’s third three of the night nosed Fenerbahce back on front. Zizic scored twice more to the delight of the crowd. A three-pointer by Shengelia and free throws by Zizic made it 50-44. Nicolo Melli and Birch were both called for unsportsmanlike fouls within a minute and a half of each other and Morgan capitalized with a three-pointer to establish the game’s first double-digit lead, 58-48. Colson and Guduric combined to score the next 6 points only to see Shengelia answer with a three-point play. Birch dunked to end the third quarter with Virtus ahead 61-56.

Biberovic and Morgan traded threes before Clyburn and Shengelia restored a double-digit margin. Virtus seemed to have an answer for every Fenerbahce score. Hayes-Davis drilled a three after a timeout to get within 75-69. Guduric twice got Fenerbahce within 4. And Biberovic tied it at 77-77 with 3 free throws with 2:18 remaining. Cordinier, who had been called for a technical foul and the foul on Biberovic, answered with a clutch triple. After a layup by Cordinier was knocked off the rim by Birch, Guduric came through with a three to give Fenerbahce an 80-81 lead with 29.4 seconds remaining. Morgan iced free throws at the other end to give Virtus the lead only to see Hayes-Davis sink a three over the outstretched arms of Shengelia. Alessandro Pajola missed the potential game-winner from the corner and Hayes-Davis grabbed the rebound and wrapped up the win from the foul line.

The league-leaders erased a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit 

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan has signed Freddie Gillespie to help address the injury to star big man Josh Nebo

Milan inks Freddie Gillespie to fortify frontline 

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan has signed [Freddie Gillespie](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/freddie-gillespie/011941/) to help address the injury to star big man Josh Nebo. 

Gillespie (2.06 meters, 27 years old) has two seasons of Turkish Airlines EuroLeague experience under his belt with FC Bayern Munich and Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade. He averaged 3.5 points, 4.3 rebounds and 0.7 blocks in EuroLeague 62 games – including 29 as a starter.

With the New Zealand Breakers this season, he posted 6.9 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.8 blocks in nine games.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="it" dir="ltr">Freddie Gillespie all’Olimpia. “Qui c’è una storia di risultati eccellenti di cui voglio far parte”<br><br>Leggi il comunicato 👉<a href="https://t.co/kJFnaG7reY">https://t.co/kJFnaG7reY</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/insieme?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#insieme</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForzaOlimpia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForzaOlimpia</a> <a href="https://t.co/PDVWQcCJj0">pic.twitter.com/PDVWQcCJj0</a></p>&mdash; Olimpia Milano (@OlimpiaMI1936) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlimpiaMI1936/status/1859296070112579823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gillespie played college basketball at Carleton College and Baylor University and started his professional career with the Toronto Raptors in the NBA. He soon joined the Memphis Hustle in the G League. Gillespie has also played for the Orlando Magic in the NBA. His trophy case includes helping Zvezda win the Serbian League and Cup and the ABA League championship last season and winning the German Cup with Bayern in 2023.

Freddie Gillespie's top 5 EuroLeague blocks

More Milan news

The center began the season with the New Zealand Breakers 

When it comes to players who can most appreciate the current five-game winning streak for BC Wolves, there are Kristupas Zemaitis and Regimantas Miniotas, who have been there from the very beginning. But Jeffery Taylor can also lay claim to a huge part of the club’s success after he was sold immediately on the idea of the club in its infancy.

Jeffery Taylor is proud of Wolves' growth and his role in it

When it comes to players who can most appreciate the current five-game winning streak for [Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/wolves-twinsbet-vilnius/wol/), there are Kristupas Zemaitis and Regimantas Miniotas, who have been there from the very beginning. But [Jeffery Taylor](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jeffery-taylor/006546/) can also lay claim to a huge part of the club’s success after he was sold immediately on the idea of the club in its infancy.

Zemaitis and Miniotas are the only two players from the opening-day roster in 2022 when Wolves debuted in the Lithuanian top flight. Taylor joined the club just before Christmas that year – only days after a chat with club president Rimantas Kaukenas. 

“Rimantas called me and was explaining the project to me. And I was just very, very interested and motivated from the start to come here and help. Just being part of something from the ground up and being able to potentially make history and keep making history, growing this brand and growing this club is something very, very interesting and fun to do as a competitor,” recalled Taylor, who in December 2022 was at home in Sweden without a job after having spent the previous seven years with [Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/mad/). 

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C6ydZ2mIhz4/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Jeffery Taylor (@jefferytaylor_44)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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Taylor’s agent spoke with Kaunkenas and then brought the idea to the then-33-year-old forward. About a week after speaking with Kaukenas, Taylor signed a one-year deal.

“Kaukenas is known as a great competitor. And he just sold me on the idea of coming here and competing and making history and taking this thing to the next level. And for me, after we had that talk, it was a no-brainer. I was sold,” he said.

Kaukenas played professionally in Europe from 2000 to 2017 in his native Lithuania, Israel, Belgium, Germany, Italy and Spain. The former shooting guard found his greatest success in Italy, where he played five seasons in the EuroLeague with Montepaschi Siena and helped the team reach the Final Four in 2008. Kaukenas also competed in the EuroLeague with Real Madrid, Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz and Zalgiris Kaunas.

The Vilnius native also played more than a decade for the Lithuanian national team and appeared in many big tournaments, including a third-place finish at EuroBasket 2007 and a semifinal berth at the 2008 Olympic Games.

Manned with the experience of winning the 2018 EuroLeague crown as well as four Spanish League titles with Real Madrid, Taylor was an integral part in Wolves taking third place in the Lithuanian League in its first season.

Taylor decided to stay in Vilnius and see what else the club could do. [He signed a two-year contract](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/bc-wolves-lock-up-jeffery-taylor-for-2-more-years/) with an option for an additional season. 

“It's been a really fun, interesting ride to see this thing basically from the beginning up until now, how much we've grown from the very beginning up until the position we're in today in 2024,” Taylor said.

The best plays of Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius forward Jeffery Taylor through the first eight rounds of the 2024-25 BKT EuroCup season.

Jeffery Taylor's top plays in 2024-25

Last season, Wolves went 8-8 in the regular season in its EuroCup debut, missing the playoffs by just one victory. The club also finished third in the Lithuanian League again and then beat Neptunas in the first round of the playoffs before taking Rytas Vilnius to five games in the semifinals. 

“I think that throughout the first years, we've grown a lot. We've shown that we want to be around for the long run. We want to be competitive. We want to be in the playoffs and play for something every season and get to places where the team hasn't been before,” Taylor said. 

This current five-game winning streak has seen Taylor and co. win at Joventut Badalona, Trefl Sopot and Dreamland Gran Canaria in addition to home wins over Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul and Dolomiti Energia Trento. During that stretch, Wolves also defeated EuroLeague side Zalgiris Kaunas 100-82 in the domestic league. 

“For us, the focus every game is to be really, really solid on defense; play with physicality, sticking with our principles and our details. And I think that's kind of what changed the most during this winning streak. We really just kind of came together in those different departments,” said Taylor, who could not help Wolves from losing its first three games of the EuroCup season. 

“It was never a problem of scoring the ball. We have a lot of guys who can score the ball. For us, it was just always going to be about defense and playing with a high level of physicality and going from there.”

<center>
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And what about being in Vilnius, which is well known as a basketball hotbed but dominated by two-time EuroCup winners and seven-time national champions Rytas Vilnius.

"I do believe Vilnius is big enough to have two teams. More good basketball anywhere is always a good thing in my opinion,” Taylor countered. “The city has been historically Rytas's city. They have so much history. It's a well accomplished club. But for our part we want to just keep growing, keep making history, keep making our own history.”

Just like how Taylor was convinced from the beginning. 

More Wolves News

The former EuroLeague champ was sold immediately on Wolves' project in its infancy by club president Rimantas Kaukenas

Eight rounds into the 2024-25 BKT EuroCup and the first break of the regular season is here. It seems like a fitting time to note the players who have stood out so far in the current campaign and give them their flowers.

2024-25 EuroCup early season awards by Eurohoops

Eight rounds into the 2024-25 BKT EuroCup and the first break of the regular season is here.

It seems like a fitting time to note the players who have stood out so far in the current campaign and give them their flowers.

### MVP

### Jared Harper – Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem

Not only is [Jared Harper](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/jared-harper/011970/) arguably the most offensively dominant player in the EuroCup right now, but his team is also collecting one victory after the other. [Hapoel Jerusalem](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/hapoel-bank-yahav-jerusalem/jer/) currently stands second in Group B at 6-2, second only to the one undefeated team in the competition, [Valencia Basket](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/valencia-basket/pam/), Harper’s ex-team.

Harper is generating points in abundance for him and his teammates. He’s the EuroCup leading scorer with 21.4 points – the only one among his peers above the 20.0 ppg. mark – while dishing out 6.9 assists, the third-best average in the competition. This lethal combination of skills has seen him cause plenty of headaches for his team’s opponents. Indeed, Harper is more or less the definition of unstoppable, winning a league-high 8.4 fouls per game.

Read more about the other awards winners [HERE](https://www.eurohoops.net/en/trademarks/1745441/2024-25-eurocup-early-season-awards-by-eurohoops/).

The MVP, First Team, Second Team, Rising Star and Best Coach are all selected

adidas NextGen EuroLeague, formerly the Euroleague Basketball adidas Next Generation Tournament, is pleased to get its first qualifying tournament underway later this month in Istanbul, Turkiye. The first qualifying round is scheduled to take place from November 29 to December 1, 2024, with former adidas athlete Dogus Balbay spearheading the NextGen Team as head coach.

adidas NextGen Team Announces New Coach Ahead of NextGen EuroLeague Qualifiers

adidas NextGen EuroLeague, formerly the Euroleague Basketball adidas Next Generation Tournament, is pleased to get its first qualifying tournament underway later this month in Istanbul, Turkiye. The first qualifying round is scheduled to take place from November 29 to December 1, 2024, with former adidas athlete Dogus Balbay spearheading the Next Gen Team as head coach.

A former captain of Anadolu Efes Istanbul, who lifted the 2021 and 2022 EuroLeague championships, Balbay follows in the footsteps of Vassilis Spanoulis, now head coach of the Greek men's national team, and Petteri Koponen, now head coach of the New Zealand Breakers. Joining the coaching staff alongside Balbay will be former EuroLeague player Dusko Savanovic and esteemed coach Ozan Havuzlu, who previously led the Turkish U16 men’s national team.

Now entering its 23rd edition, adidas NextGen EuroLeague will feature top U18 teams from 11 countries competing across four qualifying events. The competition provides a platform for up to 48 additional clubs to showcase their talent, while also offering former EuroLeague players the opportunity to transition into coaching roles. This year will mark adidas’ fourth season sponsoring the NextGen team.

The first qualifying round in Istanbul, hosted by Bahcesehir College Istanbul, will be followed by competitions in Munich from January 17 to 19, 2025, hosted by FC Bayern Munich; Ulm, from February 7 to 9, 2025, hosted by ratiopharm Ulm; and Belgrade from March 7 to 9, 2025, hosted by Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade.

“I’m excited to step into this role and help guide a new generation of talent. It’s a big honor to have the chance to mentor these young athletes and prepare them for the next level, both on and off the court,” said Balbay. “I will try to be a resource for them to elevate their skills and embrace a winning mentality. It’s important to help them realize what it takes to compete at a high level, both mentally and physically.”

The following players are slated to compete in the first qualifying round of the adidas NextGen EuroLeague 2025 in Istanbul:

- **Christopher Ebunangombe** (France)
- **Dominique Fisher** (Spain/USA)
- **Gerard Fernandez** (Spain)
- **Lucas Sanchez** (Spain)
- **Maxence Lemoine** (France)
- **Stratos Papastavrou** (Greece)
- **Louka Letailleur** (France)
- **Djordje Djukanovic** (Montenegro)
- **Jahel Trefle** (France)
- **Daniil Stolbetskiy** (Russia)
- **Roman Avdejev** (Estonia)
- **Rrezon Elezay** (Turkiye)

The team has named Dogus Balbay as head coach and announces first official roster for Istanbul tournament

Episode 4 of EuroLeague & Friends is out now. This time, Deniz Aksoy of Turkiye, Shani Blatt of Israel, Aleksandra Radivojevic of Serbia and Lona Jackson of France discuss what's going on in the EuroLeague and what to expect this week.

EuroLeague & Friends, ep. 4: The Belgrade derby, Paris's form and much more

Episode 4 of EuroLeague & Friends is out now. This time, [Deniz Aksoy](https://www.instagram.com/denizzaksoy/?hl=en) of Turkiye, [Shani Blatt](https://www.instagram.com/shaniblatt/) of Israel, [Aleksandra Radivojevic](https://www.instagram.com/amazing__alex/?hl=en) of Serbia and [Lona Jackson](https://www.instagram.com/lonajackson_/?hl=en) of France discuss what's going on in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and what to expect this week.

The main topics discussed were [Paris Basketball](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/paris-basketball/prs/)'s six-game winning streak and how its unconventional playing style and overall energy has surprised the rest of the competition, and the upcoming Rivalry Series game between [Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade/red/) and [Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/partizan-mozzart-bet-belgrade/par/) on Thursday at 20:00 CET.

Other topics were [Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/maccabi-playtika-tel-aviv/tel/)'s current injury situation, [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/)'s impressive form, [Anadolu Efes Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/anadolu-efes-istanbul/ist/)'s big road win in Madrid and which has been the biggest surprises of the season. 

Paris's fans singing Lona's name after a home game was also discussed, of course. Watch this EuroLeague discussion with a unique point of view and a different standpoint.

The four-person panel brought EuroLeague fans up to date with the latest goings-on in the league

Vassilis Toliopoulos is putting the lessons he learned from Vassilis Spanoulis, his idol, ex-teammate and current national team head coach, into action with Aris BC.

Vassilis Toliopoulos: 'Spanoulis taught me to be a better leader' 

Part of being a superstar is being a role model and inspiration for younger people. [Vassilis Toliopoulos](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/eurocup/players/vassilis-toliopoulos/004292/) got to experience his idol [Vassilis Spanoulis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/vassilis-spanoulis/juo/) both as a teammate and head coach and that helped the [Aris Midea Thessaloniki](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/aris-midea-thessaloniki/ari/) captain become a better leader for his team. 

Toliopoulos was just 19 years old when he joined [Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/olympiacos-piraeus/oly/) in 2015 after playing with Ikaros Chalkidas and Kolossos Rhodos beforehand. Spanoulis was still one of the best in Europe back then at 33 years of age. 

“I learned a lot from Vassilis. As a teammate, I was there for three and a half years. I didn’t have a chance to play with him a lot, but it was great just seeing him and how he was as a captain with Olympiacos, one of the best teams in Europe," said Toliopoulos, who was with Olympiacos until early 2019, which is when he moved to Aris for the first time.

"What he said in the locker room and how he pushes everybody to be their best version on the court and how competitive he was, even in practices and scrimmages that didn’t count. He never wanted to lose. That was something that helped build my mentality.” 

Nine years after joining Spanoulis as a teammate, Toliopoulos got the chance to play for him. The three-time EuroLeague champion was installed as Greece national team coach in October 2023 and he called the sharpshooting Toliopoulos into his squad for his coaching debut in the February 2024 window of the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers. 

Toliopoulos, who had played for Greece in qualifying games in 2020 and 2021, scored 2 points in the first game of the window and then pulled off his best Spanoulis imitation in the second game. He totaled 26 points with 4 three-pointers, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals as well as the game-winning layup with 29 seconds left in a 74-72 win over the Netherlands. 

“Having him call me to the national team – my idol and one of my favorite teammates – meant a lot to me. I really appreciate what he did for me and how he showed that he believed in me,” Toliopoulos said about the call-up from Spanoulis. 

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That wouldn’t be the last time the two former teammates hooked up for Greece in 2024. Spanoulis included Toliopoulos in his roster for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. It was the first major tournament for Toliopoulos, who is nicknamed “Pistoliopoulos”, and he averaged 8.3 points and 2.0 assists as Greece won the event and qualified for the Olympics. And that came on the court where he and Spanoulis played together – Olympiacos’s famed home, the famed Peace and Friendship Stadium. 

“I really enjoyed the moment. I tried my best to help the team qualify,” said Toliopoulos, who also got to experience NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo as a teammate. “He’s such an amazing guy. He’s the hardest worker I have seen in my life. He really does everything to help the team. He talks in the locker room. He really pushes everybody on the court to be their best self. I am really such a lucky guy to have seen all those things from him and the other guys there.”

Winning the Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) of course also meant a date for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

“The Olympics are the best thing that can happen to an athlete. It’s an amazing dream that came true," he revealed. "I couldn’t believe after the OQT that it would really happen. I didn’t understand that until I was there at the opening ceremony. I will never forget that experience. It’s such an amazing experience and I hope that every athlete that dreams of it can live it.”

Toliopoulos averaged 10.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists in Paris, where Greece lost to Germany in the quarterfinals. 

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C9KTCZLNb0a/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Vasilis Toliopoulos (@v.tolio4)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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The summer saw another big moment for Toliopoulos as he signed a two-year extension with Aris despite interest from clubs abroad, including Turk Telekom Ankara and others within Greece. 

“It was nice to know that I had interest from abroad and also from Greece. I wanted to stay with the team, but first of all, I wanted the contract that I deserved after the last two great seasons,” said Toliopoulos, who played for Aris for the remainder of the 2018-19 season as well as since 2022. 

"I am really happy the team understood what I brought to this club and how passionate I am to be here. They did everything they could to keep me in the team. It was really important to me that they showed how important I am to the team.”

Vassilis Toliopoulos's top plays in Rounds 1-8

Toliopoulos was honored for his excellent 2023-24 season by being named the Most Improved Player in the Greek League.

“That meant a lot to me because it shows all the work I put into my game and that everybody appreciated everything I did on the court. It gave me motivation to keep working and keep getting better,” he said. 

Toliopoulos also helped Aris – which celebrated its last of 10 league championships in 1991 – make club history last season. 

In the third and final game of the Greek League quarterfinal playoffs, Aris was down 2 points with 4.7 seconds left. Toliopoulos was on the free-throw line and missed his second foul shot, managed to grab the loose ball rebound, move beyond the three-point line and toss up a fall-away high arching three-pointer that fell to give Aris the victory over Promitheas Patras. 

“That was one of the best moments in my career. Maybe the best,” he recalled. 

The shot sent Aris to the Greek League semifinals for the first time since 2017. 

“It was important for Aris to have this success, for me, for all the players.” 

Toliopoulos and Aris have struggled thus far in the EuroCup with a 2-6 record, but the 28-year-old is doing his best to lead the team after learning important lessons from his idol, Vassilis Spanoulis. 

The Aris guard is fourth in the EuroCup in scoring (18.4 ppg.) so far this season

All three co-stars are back for Episode 8 of the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast! Javier Gancedo and Frankie Sachs of Euroleague.net and Vasiliki Karamouza of Sport 24 dive into team rebuilding with unlimited trades allowed this week.

EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast: Time to rebuild

All three co-stars are back for Episode 8 of the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge Podcast! [Javier Gancedo](https://x.com/ganchetto) and [Frankie Sachs](https://x.com/MrEuroleague) of [Euroleague.net](http://Euroleague.net) and [Vasiliki Karamouza](https://x.com/karamouza_vas) of Sport 24 dive into team rebuilding with unlimited trades allowed this week.

The main topic discussed when the episode was recorded – which was before the news was confirmed that friend of the podcast and [Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/olympiacos-piraeus/oly/) star [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/) would miss time – was how to best man the forward spots with [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/) of [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/) standing out as a strong candidate.

Other points of discussion include how to address this week’s three turns of games, who are the best high-priced players to own and where to find some bargains (hint: look in Berlin). Watch this week's episode now to prepare your teams ready before the first game in Round 11 between [Virtus Segafredo Bologna](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/virtus-segafredo-bologna/vir/) and Fenerbahce tips on Wednesday at 20:30 CET.

The fantasy experts have ideas for your teams this week with unlimited trades allowed

Gabriele Procida announced himself to the EuroLeague in the 2022-23 season with open-court dunks among a host of highlight-reel plays. What we're seeing from the 22-year-old forward in this current campaign, however, goes further than some spectacular plays.

Gabriele Procida is finding his way with ALBA Berlin

[Gabriele Procida](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/gabriele-procida/008384/) announced himself to the EuroLeague in the 2022-23 season with open-court dunks among a host of highlight-reel plays. What we're seeing from the 22-year-old forward in this current campaign, however, goes further than some spectacular plays.

The reigning EuroLeague Rising Star, who claimed the award last season despite injuries limiting his playing opportunities, twice improved his EuroLeague career highs in recent weeks: first against Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade in Round 8 and then in the miraculous win over EA7 Emporio Armani Milan.

When [ALBA Berlin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/alba-berlin/ber/) needed him to answer, Procida picked up the phone.

**Making the best out of a difficult situation**

"I'm feeling way better than one year ago," he explained to Cesare Milanti of Eurohoops. "Unfortunately, it was a difficult preseason. I twisted the same ankle twice. Staying out and missing the first games of the season wasn't easy" he recalled about opening the 2024-25 campaign at less than 100 percent.

"I wasn't ready, and I immediately did my all both on the court and in practice. I wasn't feeling at ease during the four or five months when I stayed out", he said, referring to the injury problems he suffered through last year when he could play in only 25 games out of 34 EuroLeague regular-season games.

"But now I take everything that comes to me. Not having the full squad available gives me even more playing time and a lot of occasions where I can risk a little bit more. I'm feeling great confidence-wise, I love getting my responsibilities on offense too", Procida added.

Read more of this story [HERE](https://www.eurohoops.net/en/euroleague/1744270/gabriele-procida-alba-berlin-euroleague-interview/).

More ALBA News

After a slow start to the season, the 2023-24 EuroLeague Rising Star has hit his stride

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana secured the services of one of the best young players in the BKT EuroCup, signing a long term deal with center Joan Beringer, the club announced. Beringer turned 18 years of age earlier this month, and inked his first professional contract that ties him with the club from the Slovenian capital until the summer of 2028.

Cedevita locks up big man Beringer long term

Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana secured the services of one of the best young players in the BKT EuroCup, signing a long term deal with center [Joan Beringer](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/joan-beringer/012996/), the club announced. Beringer (2.07 meters, 18 years old) turned 18 years of age earlier this month, and inked his first professional contract that ties him with the club from the Slovenian capital until the summer of 2028.

Beringer has shined in his EuroCup debut this season. He made 7 appearances through the first eight rounds of the season, averaging 4.0 points on 75.0% shooting and 5.4 rebounds, second most on the team. He also had totaled 5 steals and 4 blocks.

His best performance came in Round 6 loss against Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem with 10 points and 6 rebounds. In each of the two games since then, Beringer pulled down 8 rebounds.

Prior to joining Cedevita this past summer, Beringer played with Strasbourg junior teams in his native France.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="sl" dir="ltr">Nadarjeni 18-letni Joan Beringer je s Cedevito Olimpijo podpisal svojo prvo profesionalno pogodbo do leta 2028! <br><br>Joan se je ljubljanskemu klubu pridružil letošnje poletje, v kratkem času pa je postal eden od ključnih Zmajev v članski zasedbi!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZmajevaDruzina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZmajevaDruzina</a> <a href="https://t.co/bxPkiQiRTj">pic.twitter.com/bxPkiQiRTj</a></p>&mdash; Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (@KKCedOL) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKCedOL/status/1858842686024798495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> 

The 18-year old is averaging 4.0 points on 75.0% shooting and 5.4 rebounds.

Euroleague Basketball and Visa, a world leader in digital payments, have announced a landmark multi-year partnership where Visa will become the official payment partner of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and the BKT EuroCup, the two premier men’s basketball competitions in Europe, until the end of the 2026-2027 season.

Visa and Euroleague Basketball Announce Multi-Year Partnership

Euroleague Basketball and Visa, a world leader in digital payments, have announced a landmark multi-year partnership where Visa will become the official payment partner of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and the BKT EuroCup, the two premier men’s basketball competitions in Europe, until the end of the 2026-2027 season.

This strategic partnership will bring exciting opportunities for Visa cardholders, including dedicated promotional offers and discounts and hospitality packages for the Final Four in May 2025. It also offers high-impact branding opportunities with Visa’s logo being displayed across EuroLeague and EuroCup games, both in-arena and during broadcasts, as well as on the competitions' digital platforms and content.

Four out of five in-store payments across Europe are now contactless, reflecting consumer preferences for a frictionless, efficient, and secure transaction process. Visa will collaborate with Euroleague to continue growing contactless payment technology across arenas, aiming to elevate the game-day experience for fans across Europe.

**Gawain Davies, Euroleague Basketball Chief Commercial Officer, says**: “We are excited to partner with Visa. This is a groundbreaking partnership for Euroleague Basketball and an excellent opportunity for Visa to connect with the basketball community. Visa’s commitment to removing barriers and connecting people within the digital payment ecosystem aligns perfectly with Euroleague Basketball's mission to deliver unforgettable moments to our growing, passionate, and global audience.”

**Kim Kadlec, Chief Marketing Officer, Visa Europe, says**: “We are excited to partner with Euroleague Basketball. Sport is a highly important component of European culture, and we are proud to sponsor some of the region’s most exciting competitions and tournaments. Key sporting events – such as Euroleague Basketball – are a great way for us to connect fans across the world with their passions, driving meaningful connections and exceptional experiences.”

For over 35 years, Visa has been a leader in the sponsorship industry, proudly supporting some of the world's most prominent sports and entertainment properties. Additionally, Visa champions artists, entertainers, and creators across music, gaming, and more.

Valencia Basket bolstered its frontcourt by signing center Amida Brimah for the remainder of the season, the club announced Tuesday. 

Valencia powers up with shot-blocker Amida Brimah

[Valencia Basket](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/valencia-basket/pam/) bolstered its frontcourt by signing center [Amida Brimah](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/eurocup/players/amida-brimah/012075/) for the remainder of the season, the club announced Tuesday. 

Brimah (2.13 meters, 30 years old) arrives from BAXI Manresa, where he was on a short-term deal. He averaged 3.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in eight Spanish League games this season.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ca" dir="ltr">🧡 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BenvingutAmida?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BenvingutAmida</a><br><br>Cas 👉 Valencia Basket alarga su juego interior con el fichaje de Amida Brimah<a href="https://t.co/spyMdrweYf">https://t.co/spyMdrweYf</a><br><br>Val 👉 Valencia Basket allarga el seu joc interior amb el fitxatge d&#39;Amida Brimah<a href="https://t.co/xP5rQV5KzP">https://t.co/xP5rQV5KzP</a><br><br>Eng 👉 Valencia Basket extends its frontcourt… <a href="https://t.co/iHSx3umo8u">pic.twitter.com/iHSx3umo8u</a></p>&mdash; Valencia Basket Club (@valenciabasket) <a href="https://twitter.com/valenciabasket/status/1858796049373991107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Brimah started his career with the Austin Toros of the G League and also played for Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade of Serbia, the Indiana Pacers of the NBA, the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Grand Rapids Gold and Santa Cruz Warriors of the G League, the Mets de Guaynabo of Puerto Rico, Filou Oostende of Belgium, Akita Northern Happinets of Japan, and [Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/cosea-jl-bourg-en-bresse/bou/) of France, where he made his BKT EuroCup debut. 

In 14 EuroCup games with Bourg in the 2022-23 season, he averaged 4.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. He was fifth in the competition in blocks that season. 

Amida Brimah blocking shots

Brimah won the Belgian League and Cup double with Oostende in 2022 and lifted the G League trophy with Austin in 2018, the same season he was also named to the league's all-defensive team. Before that, he helped the University of Connecticut win the NCAA Tournament in 2014 alongside current FC Bayern Munich players [Niels Giffey](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/niels-giffey/001557/) and [Shabazz Napier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shabazz-napier/011224/).   

More Valencia News

The center from Ghana was fifth in the EuroCup in blocks two seasons ago

U-BT Cluj-Napoca has completed the signing of Gediminas Orelik, the club announced Monday. The length of the contract has not been disclosed.

U-BT Cluj-Napoca adds Gediminas Orelik

[U-BT Cluj-Napoca](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/u-bt-cluj-napoca/clu/) has completed the signing of [Gediminas Orelik](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/eurocup/players/gediminas-orelik/002012/), the club announced Monday. The length of the contract has not been disclosed.

Orelik (2.00 meters, 34 years old) spent the first part of this season playing for Juventus in his native Lithuania, averaging 11.4 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists in nine Lithuanian League games.

A veteran of the BKT EuroCup, Orelik returns to the competition where he has played 91 times, posting career averages of 12.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists. His 1,131 points in the EuroCup rank him 19th overall all time.

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DChZ04HNCxE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by U-BT Cluj-Napoca (@ubancatransilvania)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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The Lithuanian forward spent the last three seasons with 7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys and showed that he is still an elite scorer in the EuroCup, averaging 15.4 ppg. in 2021-22, 13.8 ppg. in 2022-23, and 15.5 ppg. in 2023-24. 

Cluj will be Orelik's fifth club in the EuroCup after previously suiting up for Siauliai (2009-10), Rudupis Prienal (2011-13), Rytas Vilnius (2013-16) and then Lietkabelis (2021-24). The 2013-14 campaign also saw him compete in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague with Rytas for the first time.

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The Romanian side will be the fifth club he represents in the EuroCup