Belgrade’s Core
Earlier this summer, Partizan GM Zoran Savic discussed the latest developments surrounding player signings, including Nikola Mirotic, who was in the process of transitioning away from Barcelona, the surprising departure of Euroleague’s Rising Star, Yam Madar, and the club’s expectations after successfully re-signing team captain Kevin Punter.
Despite uncertainty to start the off-season, Savic’s tone was confident, and it was clear that Partizan was determined to build on last year’s success both in the Euroleague and ABA League (of which they won the championship) to strengthen their roster and compete for titles immediately.
In addition to Punter, the Serbians re-signed Zach LeDay (11.4 PTs, 5.1 REBs), James Nunnally (9.2 PTs, 2.1 REBs, 1.8 ASTs), and Aleksa Avramovic (6.3 PTs), keeping their core intact, which allowed them the flexibility to find high-quality, “complementary” players who would fit coach Obradović’s system.
Chemistry + Kaminsky
As the regular seasons in Europe draw closer, Partizan made one of the more significant free agent acquisitions of the summer, signing former Naismith College Player of the Year and 1st team All-American Frank Kaminsky, recently with the Houston Rockets.
The 7’0 NBA veteran brings a wealth of experience and a versatile skill set to the team, and if he can transition quickly to the style of play in Europe, he can have a significant impact in Belgrade.
On the court, Kaminsky's ability to stretch the floor and play both the forward and center position provide coach Obradovic with a unique asset when considering offensive schemes, in which Punter will remain the focal point.
Defensively, now Partizan has two seven-footers to anchor them with Kaminsky and Koprivica.
Still, it is expected that Kaminsky will command the majority of playing time at the center position, bringing his NBA career averages of 8.8 PTs, 3.8 REBs and 1.6 ASTs to Belgrade.
The "Tank" will be joining a frontcourt with Leday, one of the best forwards in Europe, and also has undeniable chemistry with Punter, whom he has played with on multiple Euroleage teams.
Showdown at Stark
For Partizan fans, there should be a lot of excitement about the roster and Kaminsky’s potential to impact both sides of the court.
Obradovic, the winningest coach in Euroleague history and a brilliant offensive mind will have the team ready to play each game expecting to win.
It is going to be an exciting season in Belgrade, and when considering the Euroleague, there is a game in December that should be truly compelling, as Partizan will host Monaco who recently signed Kemba Walker.
Kaminsky and Walker were teammates on the Charlotte Hornets, with a lot of shared experiences, so expect a high quality, emotional matchup in Stark Arena.
