There were many transfers from the NBA to Europe during the offseason. Among them, two players were in the sights of Anadolu Efes: Jordan Nwora and Cedi Osman. The first file went well, with the 2021 champion signing with the Bucks for at least one season.
“We worked very hard this summer and it's thanks to our president, the management, who allowed us to broaden our horizons and talk with our friends in the NBA. With the GM, Alper Yılmaz, we worked hard to complete this transfer and we were lucky to conclude it.”says the coach of the Turkish club, Tomislav Mijatovic, to EuroHoops. “It didn't happen overnight, even though it seemed that way. There were a lot of efforts and discussions.”
Coach didn't see Cedi Osman leaving the NBA
On the other hand, for Cedi Osman, it didn't work out since we know that the Turkish winger didn't decide to return home. He preferred to join Panathinaikos and its XXL squad. Did Anadolu Efes try to recruit him?
“Cedi and I talk about a lot of things. We actually talk 10 to 15 times a summer, either face-to-face or on the phone. I talk to Cedi all the time and this summer is no exception. We exchange ideas, thoughts,” continues Tomislav Mijatovic. “Yes, I was in communication with him during this process. I was surprised, and I told him, not to see him sign with an NBA team. I was sure he was going to stay in the NBA.”
The coach of the club, which has won the Euroleague twice in recent years (2021 and 2022), places great emphasis on the situation of the former Cleveland player, who he did not imagine returning to Europe.
“While we had already filled our roster, he was still free… I repeat: I didn't think he was going to leave the NBA,” he insists. “Nevertheless, it happened and he signed with Panathinaikos. It's his decision. He's joining a great coach and the reigning European champion. I'm not surprised by this choice but by the fact that he didn't sign earlier in the summer in the NBA.”
