Former NBA center Mo Bamba is weighing his next move as overseas interest continues to grow. According to Zhang Duo, Bamba has been offered a contract worth more than $3 million pre-tax from a Chinese club.
The 27-year-old big man has also been linked heavily to Partizan Belgrade in recent weeks. Serbian outlet Sport24.gr reported that Bamba was the top target for legendary coach Zeljko Obradovic as the team looks to strengthen its frontcourt.
Partizan already made a formal offer, positioning themselves as a leading contender for his signature. However, the lucrative financial package from China could complicate their pursuit.
Bamba entered the NBA as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2018 draft by the Orlando Magic. Known for his length and rim protection, he spent five seasons in Orlando before short stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and New Orleans Pelicans.
Over 364 regular-season games, Bamba averaged 6.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 17.1 minutes per contest. His best statistical season came in 2021–22, when he posted career highs of 10.6 points and 8.1 rebounds per game with the Magic.
His most recent NBA appearance was with the Pelicans in March 2025, when he signed a 10-day contract and played four games. Earlier in the season, he had signed with the Clippers before being traded to the Utah Jazz, who waived him shortly after.
Now, Bamba faces a decision between a competitive EuroLeague role with Partizan or a financially stronger deal in China. For European clubs, his defensive presence and ability to stretch the floor make him a valuable addition, while Chinese teams are prepared to pay premium salaries for his NBA experience.
