2022 EuroLeague MVP Nikola Mirotić weighs ending his career
Former EuroLeague MVP Nikola Mirotić is reportedly considering retirement after a disappointing season with France's Monaco, with several Spanish clubs ready to sign him if he leaves. No final decision has been made yet.
Montenegrin-born basketball player Nikola Mirotić, who was named EuroLeague MVP in 2022, is reportedly weighing his future after an underwhelming season with French club Monaco. According to Spanish newspaper La Razon, the 35-year-old may have already played his last game for the club, with retirement listed among the options being considered. No firm decision has been made so far.
Toward the end of the season, Mirotić was sidelined for an extended period by a calf muscle injury.
A possible split
Although his contract with Monaco runs until the summer of 2027, several Spanish clubs are reportedly ready to pursue him should the sides part ways. Badalona's Juventut has already expressed interest in the 208-centimeter player, while Malaga and Baskonia are also seen as possible suitors.
Career path
As a child, Mirotić was more drawn to football, but his grandfather, noting his height, encouraged him to take up basketball instead. He began playing basketball at age 13 and joined Real Madrid's youth system just a year later, later obtaining Spanish citizenship and representing Spain's national team.
From 2014 to 2019 he played in the NBA for the Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans and Milwaukee Bucks, appearing in more than 350 games. In 2019 he returned to Spain, spending four seasons with Real Madrid's longtime rival Barcelona, with whom he won the EuroLeague MVP award in 2022. He later spent two seasons with Milan's Olimpia before joining Monaco for the most recent season. Across his EuroLeague career, he has played in more than 300 games.
