After just one season in the NBA, former EuroLeague MVP Sasha Vezenkov has returned to Europe, re-joining Greek club Olympiacos.
Vezenkov, who played 42 games for the Sacramento Kings last season, made the decision to leave the NBA and return to the EuroLeague, citing a desire to be in a more competitive setting.
“These are nice dilemmas. I filter through all the possibilities,” Vezenkov told Eurohoops in a recent interview.
The Bulgarian forward averaged 5.4 points and 2.3 rebounds in 12.2 minutes per game during his time with the Kings.
Despite his NBA stint, Vezenkov says his heart remained with Olympiacos, where he has had significant success in the past.
“It gives you joy when you return to a familiar environment where you are loved,” he said. “I prefer to be in a competitive environment, to fight for titles, and to feel important.”
Vezenkov was traded to the Toronto Raptors in June 2024 as part of a multi-player deal, but the Raptors waived him just a month later.
On July 25, 2024, Vezenkov made the move back to Olympiacos, where he feels he can continue to grow as a player.
“I didn’t know if I would have an opportunity in the NBA like the one I gave myself,” Vezenkov explained. “This is what I wanted to do, and I wanted to do it with Olympiacos.”
Vezenkov was a standout in the EuroLeague before joining the NBA, having won the EuroLeague MVP award and leading Olympiacos to numerous titles.
He now returns to a familiar role with the Greek powerhouse, eager to compete for more championships.
“This is my home,” Vezenkov said of Olympiacos, emphasizing his strong connection with the team and its fans.
For Vezenkov, the opportunity to play a bigger role and be in title contention was more appealing than remaining in the NBA.
Olympiacos has been a dominant force in European basketball, and Vezenkov’s return is expected to bolster their championship hopes.
With Vezenkov back in the fold, Olympiacos will be aiming to add more silverware to their already impressive trophy cabinet.
As Vezenkov put it, “I wanted to be in a place where I feel important and can help my team succeed.”
