In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, Bulgarian star Alexander Vezenkov has decided to leave the NBA and return to his former club, Olympiacos.
The news, reported by Greek media, marks a significant shift in Vezenkov’s career as he signs a lucrative 4-year contract with the Piraeus-based team.
Vezenkov, who was crowned the MVP of the Euroleague for the 2023 season, had spent the last season with the Sacramento Kings.
Despite having the option to continue his NBA journey with the Toronto Raptors, Vezenkov chose to return to familiar territory, rejecting an enticing offer from Panathinaikos, Olympiacos’ arch-rival.
The decision was not made lightly. Olympiacos has been keen on bringing their former player back into the fold for some time.
The club’s leadership, including Vice President George Skindilias and Sports Director Christos Bapes, played a crucial role in the negotiations. Their visit to Sofia to meet Vezenkov in person was a decisive factor in sealing the deal.
As Toronto prepares to officially release Vezenkov, the basketball world is abuzz with speculation about the impact of his return to Europe.
Vezenkov’s new contract with Olympiacos is reportedly worth 14 million euros, setting a record for the highest salary in the club’s history. This substantial financial commitment underscores the importance Olympiacos places on Vezenkov’s talent and leadership.
Vezenkov’s decision to return to Olympiacos is seen as a homecoming. He first joined the club in 2015 and quickly became a fan favorite, known for his scoring ability, versatility, and clutch performances.
His tenure with Olympiacos was marked by numerous highlights, including a Greek League title and several deep runs in the Euroleague.
The 28-year-old forward’s return is expected to bolster Olympiacos’ roster significantly. Vezenkov’s experience in the NBA, coupled with his proven track record in the Euroleague, makes him a formidable addition to the team.
His ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor will be invaluable as Olympiacos aims for domestic and European success.
Vezenkov’s departure from the NBA, however, raises questions about his career trajectory. While many European players dream of making it to the NBA, Vezenkov’s choice highlights the allure and competitiveness of European basketball.
The Euroleague, in particular, has seen a resurgence in recent years, with several high-profile players opting to play in Europe rather than pursue NBA opportunities.
Olympiacos fans are undoubtedly thrilled about Vezenkov’s return. His familiarity with the team’s system, combined with his skill set, is expected to have an immediate impact.
As the club prepares for the upcoming season, the excitement surrounding Vezenkov’s signing is palpable.
In a statement, Vezenkov expressed his gratitude to the Sacramento Kings and the NBA for the opportunity but emphasized his eagerness to rejoin Olympiacos.
He acknowledged the pivotal role played by Skindilias and Bapes in his decision, and he expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to the team’s future successes.
As the basketball community watches closely, Vezenkov’s return to Olympiacos is poised to be one of the most significant moves of the off-season.
His decision not only strengthens Olympiacos’ chances in the upcoming season but also underscores the dynamic nature of professional basketball careers, where personal preferences and strategic choices can lead to surprising and impactful outcomes.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members