Besiktas pursuing for NBA’s Boban Marjanovic for major basketball transfer
Boban Marjanović in action for the Rockets in March 2024. (USA Today Sports via Reuters)
Besiktas is making waves in the basketball world with a potential high-profile signing. According to reports from Serbian media, the Turkish club has begun negotiations to bring NBA free agent Boban Marjanovic to its roster.
The 36-year-old Serbian center, who has played in the NBA since 2015, was last with the Houston Rockets but is currently without a team.
Besiktas aiming to strengthen its roster with NBA veteran
Standing at 2.24 meters (7’4″) and weighing 132 kilograms (290 lbs), Marjanovic is renowned for his towering frame and physical prowess. With a wingspan of 2.43 meters (7’11”), the Serbian star is one of the most imposing players in basketball today, making him exceptionally difficult to defend and stop.
If Besiktas signs Marjanovic, the 36-year-old will return to Europe for the first time since 2015. Boban Marjanovic averaged 3.2 points – 2.3 rebounds in 14 games in the NBA last season.
Besiktas, set to compete under the name Besiktas Fibabanka this season, is making significant changes to its squad. The team has already parted ways with four players and has secured new signings, including Kelan Martin from Karsıyaka, Dustin Sleva from Murcia, Emmanuel Terry from Manisa Buyuksehir Belediyesi, and Conor Morgan from London Lions.
Marjanovic, NBA veteran
Marjanovic’s NBA journey has spanned nine years, with stints at teams such as the San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons, LA Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, and Houston Rockets.
Known for his gentle off-court demeanor but fierce presence on the court, Marjanovic has earned a reputation as a skilled and reliable big man.
Boban Marjanovic intentionally misses to give fans free chicken
Boban Marjanovic gave fans exactly what they wanted during the Houston Rockets’ 116-105 victory over the LA Clippers back in April.
The 7’4″ Serbian center heard the chants from fans urging him to miss consecutive free throws as part of a promotion that would earn everyone in attendance a free chicken sandwich.
With less than five minutes left in the game and the Rockets leading 105-97, Marjanovic stepped to the line for two free throws.
After missing the first attempt, the crowd’s chants for chicken grew louder. In a playful moment, Marjanovic turned to the fans, signaling his intent to help them out.
“He gave them chicken! He’s a man of the people!” a broadcaster shouted on Space City Home Network, which aired the game.
