Will Clyburn CSKA Moscow
Photo: EuroLeague Basketball

Reigning champion Anadolu Efes Istanbul signed a two-year contract with two-time All-EuroLeague forward Will Clyburn and they will be looking to complete the three-peat.

As we all know, everything comes to an end sooner or later,”  small forward Will Clyburn, per CSKA’s press release, “Our family has been in Russia for most of our kids’ childhood. This was truly home away from home. I’ve been blessed to be a part of something truly special with this Club. CSKA gave me the opportunity to build a legacy here. Still one of the greatest accomplishments of my life was winning the EuroLeague title with this club. UNREAL FEELING!! We’ve had great memories and not so great memories. And with that being said I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Clyburn returns to Istanbul, where he made his EuroLeague debut with Darussafaka during the 2016-17 season.

Clyburn has been among the most prolific players in the EuroLeague since his debut in 2016. His average of 13.2 points over 160 career games since then ranks 10th among all EuroLeague players in the same time span, and his 5.4 rebounds per game are tied for 11th. Only one other player, Nikola Mirotic, ranks as high in both categories.

“I’ve met some incredible people over the years being here with CSKA. And I have to say that a lot of them have shaped me to the player I am today. So to all the players, coaches and medical staff I’ve had the pleasure to work with, thank you! To Andrey, Natasha, Shep, Nick, Tazu, Anton, Dennis, Kurbi and Simon, you guys are one of a kind. You guys have treated me like family since the first day I’ve arrived,” Clyburn further illustrated his experience, “I’ve always felt I’ve belonged here with you guys. All the talks, jokes, hihi-haha, practices, dinners, hugs and battles will always be remembered no matter what! Thank you guys for everything! Thank you to the Fans that have supported us to the end!!!”

 He helped the club win the 2019 EuroLeague as the Final Four MVP. Last season, Clyburn averaged a career-high 14.9 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists despite coming off the bench in 19 of his 20 appearances.