Partizan Belgrade made headlines by signing Finnish forward Miikka Muurinen, an 18-year-old prospect nicknamed “Slim Jesus,” to a three-year contract.
The move marks a bold step for the teenager, who chose Serbia over continuing his career in the United States.
“After EuroBasket, I had to decide whether to stay with my former high school team, Arizona Compass, or try something new,” Muurinen told Yle. “We looked at all the options, and this one seemed the best at the moment.”
For Muurinen, the choice fulfilled a lifelong dream.
“Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of playing in front of fans in Serbia, Greece, and Turkiye,” he said.
His athleticism had already caught the eye of top NCAA programs, but he felt Europe offered stronger competition, elite coaching, and unmatched fan passion.
Still, his long-term plan remains focused on the NBA Draft in 2027.
“My strategy remains the same. After this season, the goal is to go to college and then enter the 2027 draft,” he explained.
“This is just a stop in Serbia for now. If things go well and I like it here, I might skip college – but I don’t think that will happen, because I still want the college experience.”
In Belgrade, he will work under legendary coach Zeljko Obradovic, a nine-time EuroLeague champion.
“He’s a very experienced coach. I can’t wait to join the team,” Muurinen said. “I’m ready for the challenge. I want to develop, and that requires a tough, demanding coach.”
On Saturday, Muurinen will travel to Serbia to begin what could be the most important chapter of his young career.
What was the reason? https://t.co/qEQBNdTurQ
— BasketNews (@BasketNews_com) September 27, 2025
