Furkan Korkmaz, recently waived by the Indiana Pacers following a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers, is attracting attention from several Turkish basketball powerhouses, including Fenerbahce, Anadolu Efes, and Besiktas.
Yağız Sabuncuoğlu’s tweet revealed that Besiktas has initiated formal negotiations with the player’s representatives seeking $600,000 for a four-month deal.
The player’s camp revealed a preference for a short-term contract, aiming to potentially return to the NBA by the summer.
Sabuncuoğlu further highlighted Korkmaz’s desire to utilize the four-month window before the NBA offseason, with the EuroCup and EuroLeague transfer windows closed, focusing solely on domestic league engagements.
Having previously played in his homeland during the 2016-17 season with Banvit, Korkmaz could be set to return.
The 26-year-old shooting guard’s journey to the NBA began when he joined the Philadelphia 76ers in 2017.
Despite limited playing time this season, appearing in only 35 games for the 76ers and averaging 2.5 points in 8.6 minutes per game, Korkmaz’s potential impact on the court is well-recognized, sparking interest from top-tier Turkish clubs.
The two EuroLeague sides, Fenerbahce, Anadolu Efes, and Besiktas, view Korkmaz as a valuable addition to their respective squads.
As negotiations unfold and Korkmaz evaluates his options, the Turkish basketball landscape eagerly anticipates the decision of the talented guard, whose return could potentially reshape the dynamics of the league.
With his experience in both the NBA and Turkish basketball leagues, Korkmaz brings a unique skill set and valuable insights, making him a coveted asset for teams vying for success on the court.
Whether Korkmaz opts to continue his career in the NBA or embarks on a new chapter in Turkish basketball, his presence is bound to make a significant impact, shaping the competitive landscape and thrilling fans with his on-court prowess.
