Bogdan Bogdanović has been a free agent since Monday night (June 29) and is generating quite a buzz. Especially on our side of the Atlantic, where he’s considered a superstar of European basketball, thanks in part to the career he’s built over the past nine years in the NBA.

The Serbian guard’s priority is to remain in the world’s top league for one more year, in order to complete the decade required by the NBA’s renowned retirement plan, which will provide for him and his family for the rest of their lives.

The Denver Nuggets appear to be the heavy favorites to sign him, pairing him with their compatriot Nikola Jokić. NBA teams can begin discussions with free agents as early as next week, but any agreement will not be finalized until after July 6, as stipulated by the relevant regulations.

Admiration for Zoc and Diamantidis

The possibility of Bogdanović returning to Europe isn’t the most likely scenario at the moment, but it can’t be ruled out. If he doesn’t find the contract he wants in the NBA, he’ll turn his attention to the EuroLeague, where Panathinaikos will be at the forefront.

The Serbian guard has spoken highly of the “clover” in the past, specifically mentioning Dimitris Diamantidis. He has stated that the iconic captain of the “Greens” was a role model for him in the early stages of his career, admiring the way he read the game, his defensive commitment, and his leadership on the court.

Of course, Panathinaikos’s biggest advantage is Bogdanović’s relationship with Željko Obradović.

From 2014 through 2017, the two worked together with great success at Fenerbahçe, culminating, of course, in winning the EuroLeague in the 2017 final against Olympiacos. Zoc also maintains an excellent relationship with Obradović’s family, with the player himself having stated in the past that the greatest coach in the history of European basketball helped him see the game in a new light and develop his game beyond just scoring.

He had admitted that at first it wasn’t easy for him to adapt to Obradović’s style, but over time he realized that it is precisely those high standards that make the players and the team better. At the same time, he had mentioned that Zoc doesn’t look at names, ages, or contracts, but only at who can help the team win.

Changing the Game

Bogdanović averages 14 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game over 526 NBA games, and if he comes to Europe, he’ll be a game-changer for any coach.

He is a prolific scorer and shooter, and he stands out for his basketball IQ, his ability to read the game, and his leadership in clutch situations. He is an elite guard who can create scoring opportunities both for himself and for his teammates.

*photo source: AR