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ABU DHABI – Unlike in his previous two occasions, Vasilije Micic did not take home the championship trophy or the tournament MVP title at this year’s EuroLeague Final Four.
Instead, he was present in Abu Dhabi, UAE, to partake in the festivities and receive formal recognition as a member of the All-25 EuroLeague Team. Recently returning from his second NBA season and amid ongoing speculation linking him to various EuroLeague powerhouses, the Serbian guard took a moment to reflect on his experiences over the past two years.
“It’s been an incredible journey,” Micic remarked when asked by Eurohoops about his time in the NBA. “I’ve learned a lot during this period, and I know I would have regretted not experiencing it. The caliber of players there is exceptional. The talent level is truly one-of-a-kind. For instance, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who just secured the MVP title, is always the first one to arrive at practice—a natural leader. Nikola Jokic shares this dedication as well. I had the privilege to work closely with Kevin Durant over the last couple of months and witnessed his approach to training firsthand. Everything he does is intentional.”
“The league is evolving in its own way,” Micic continued. “I don’t believe I fit the Oklahoma City Thunder perfectly when I joined, especially with their organizational vision.”
In 2023, Micic made a highly anticipated leap to the NBA, signing with the Oklahoma City Thunder at 29 years old, having been a standout player overseas, crowned EuroLeague champion in both 2021 and 2022, and honored as the 2021 MVP.
While he was a star in the EuroLeague, Micic struggled to find a consistent role with the Thunder and was subsequently traded to the Charlotte Hornets in January 2024. With the Hornets, he received increased playing time, averaging 10.8 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.1 rebounds in 27.2 minutes per game.
Micic saw another trade opportunity when the Phoenix Suns acquired him last February.
“I’m fine with it. Whenever I was given the chance, I made sure to seize it and always aimed to perform at my best,” Micic shared. “However, success there is heavily reliant on opportunity and timing. The league is skewing younger, which is the current NBA approach. Nonetheless, I feel positive about my two seasons there.”
The Suns currently have the option to retain Micic for the following season; however, it appears likely that the accomplished guard will return to the EuroLeague, potentially becoming the highest-paid player outside of the NBA.
As he confessed to Eurohoops, he has yearned for the thrill, excitement, and drive that come with competing for a championship.
“Absolutely,” Micic stated when asked if he missed the EuroLeague while playing in the NBA. “My first experience in the EuroLeague with Bayern Munich was a dream come true. Since then, I’ve accomplished everything I set out to achieve. I thrive on competing in basketball where I can contend for titles and victories. I’ve never guaranteed wins or championships; it’s merely a deep-seated desire of mine. Thankfully, I’ve been able to demonstrate that on the court. But that competitive spirit is what I’ve been missing—meaningful games.”
