After a season spent rebuilding his game and confidence in Europe, Serbian center Filip Petrusev is once again setting his sights on the NBA.
The 25-year-old, who most recently played for Crvena Zvezda in his home country, is eager for another opportunity to prove himself on the biggest basketball stage.
“I would like to return to the NBA as soon as possible,” Petrusev told Serbian outlet Sportski Zurnal. “It is always better, for everyone and for me in particular, to go there early than to try to do it in my last years of career.”
Petrusev’s initial stint in the NBA was brief. He appeared in just three games split between the Philadelphia 76ers and Sacramento Kings during the 2023–24 season.
Shortly after finally getting minutes in Philadelphia, he was traded, an abrupt change that he says derailed his NBA start.
“I was not lucky in Philadelphia. As soon as I started playing, I was traded, and everything fell apart. Now I have regained my self-confidence, and I believe that I deserve a second chance!” he said.
Following his release, Petrusev signed with Olympiacos in Greece before returning to Serbia on loan to play for Crvena Zvezda.
In 55 games this season, he averaged a solid 13.3 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, showcasing his scoring ability and reestablishing himself as a capable presence in the frontcourt.
With his confidence restored and his play on the rise, Petrusev is making it clear that his ambition lies in the NBA. He noted that every contract he signs includes a specific clause to allow for a potential return.
“It is my great desire to return to the NBA and for this reason all the contracts I sign include an NBA out clause,” Petrusev added.
At just 25, Petrusev still believes his best basketball is ahead of him – and that he’s ready to make the most of a second chance.
Filip Petrusev Hopes To Make NBA Return https://t.co/HfKeIKynPb
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 20, 2025
