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At the age of 34, Nikola Vucevic is nearing what might be the final phase of his professional career at the elite level. With a crucial summer spent with the Montenegro national team and another season on the horizon with the Chicago Bulls, the experienced center took a moment to contemplate his future.
In a conversation with BasketUSA, Vucevic revealed that he is contemplating the possibility of stepping back from international play after EuroBasket 2025, although he still harbors significant ambitions within the NBA.
“I might have a change of heart, but as of now, I believe EuroBasket 2025 will be my final appearance,” he shared with BasketUSA. “The next EuroBasket is just two years away, and I’ll be nearing 36 or 37. I also want to dedicate more energy to my NBA career. As I get older, I need to consider my body and the recovery process before diving into a new season.”
The Montenegrin star, who will celebrate his 35th birthday in October, has found his name frequently associated with trade speculations during the offseason. Nonetheless, he remains committed to the Bulls for the time being while also pondering his future prospects.
“A week ago, the Bulls’ general manager reassured me that all the talk was unfounded and that our agreements from the end of the season still stand,” he noted. “I was already aware of that, but it’s always reassuring to hear it directly from the GM.”
When asked whether he anticipates being a Bull when the upcoming season kicks off, he responded confidently: “Yes, I have nearly no doubts about that. That’s the mentality I’m adopting. Beyond that, we’ll see what unfolds; I can’t predict the future.”
Vucevic maintains a realistic outlook on the rumors surrounding his career.
“Speculation is always present. Most of it is inaccurate. It’s somewhat nonsensical. For instance, the buyout rumors were taken out of context in Europe. I understand how the business operates: in the final year of a contract, talks and speculations are part of the landscape. Since I have no control over it, I try not to let it bother me.”
Nevertheless, the seasoned player is open about his ambitions as he approaches the later stages of his career.
“I’m eager to compete for a team with championship aspirations. In Europe, it’s usually simpler to join a top contender, but in the NBA, the processes and regulations complicate things.”
Lastly, Vucevic expressed his happiness for his longtime friend Evan Fournier, who is thriving with Olympiacos.
“I’m thrilled for him. He faced a challenging couple of years in New York and Detroit. It was clear he was not content and lacked the usual enthusiasm for the game. Olympiacos, with its passionate fans and vibrant atmosphere, has been a great boost for him.”
