Author: Monojit Mandal
Euroleague star Vasilije Micic is reportedly seriously considering a career in the NBA, which is a big step. Micic is set to play in the NBA next season, according to Sportal.gr’s Christos Tsaltas, as verified by Anadolu Efes general manager Alper Yilmaz. The Turkish team’s star player has declared his ambition to play in the world’s top basketball league (via Eurohoops).
Micic, a 29-year-old Serbian guard, was picked 52nd in the 2014 NBA lottery by the Philadelphia 76ers. However, in 2020, his purchase rights were negotiated with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where they have remained for the last three years.
Micic, who began his professional career in Europe in 2010, joined Anadolu Efes in 2018. He was instrumental in the team’s success, winning two EuroLeague titles in 2021 and 2022. Micic’s excellent performance earned him the title of Euroleague Most Valuable Player in 2021. He also helped Anadolu Efes win the Turkish League in 2019, 2021 and 2023, and took the MVP award in this year’s finals.
Although Micic has already shown interest in joining the NBA, his current determination seems to be greater, as indicated by his recent trip to Oklahoma City to talk to Thunder management. Tsaltas believes that Micic has become more flexible compared to his previous expectations. A year ago, sources indicated that he was looking for a salary close to the full value of the mid-level exception and a regular rotation position at a competitive club. Although Micic’s attitude towards these issues has changed, it is unlikely that he will accept a two-way contract or a minimum wage pact.
The question is whether the Thunder, who are currently full of young and talented players, will be able to fit Micic into their squad. The club has squad limits after adding another lottery pick, Cason Wallace, this summer. Sam Presti, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s head of basketball operations, confirmed Micic’s visit, describing it as a constructive meeting. Presti, on the other hand, remained evasive about the organization’s plans for the Serbian playmaker (via Clemente Almanza of The Thunder Wire on Twitter).
Given the circumstances, the Thunder may decide to transfer Micic’s rights to help him sign with an NBA team this offseason. Any future transaction, however, will almost certainly include the acquisition of significant assets. While Micic’s immediate effect on the court is undeniable, his age may not be compatible with the Thunder’s current maturation schedule. The organization must balance the rewards of their immediate contribution with the risk of limiting the development of other team players.
However, if Micic is really ready to make the leap to the NBA, his request will most likely be granted. If the Thunder find it difficult to adapt, there is likely to be interest from other clubs in trading him. The 29-year-old point guard is widely considered one of the most talented players not currently in the NBA and could immediately contribute to a title contender.
While concerns remain, it’s clear that Micic, who was picked 52nd overall in the second round of the 2014 NBA draft, has reached a fork in the road.