After being waived by the Detroit Pistons shortly after this month’s trade deadline, veteran forward/center Dario Saric has turned his focus to international competition.
He has joined the Croatian national team for the winter qualifying window ahead of the 2027 FIBA World Cup, according to a Eurohoops report.
Saric has been part of the NBA since leaving Anadolu Efes in Turkey in 2016, but his role has steadily diminished over the past few seasons.
The 31-year-old saw limited action this year, appearing in only five games for Sacramento after playing just 16 contests with Denver during the 2024/25 season.
With his opportunities in the NBA becoming increasingly scarce, Saric now expects his next professional chapter to take place in Europe.
“Right now, my focus is on the EuroLeague,” the player said. “Finding a team and a system that suits me and allows me to adjust after the NBA.”
Reports indicate that Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv showed interest in signing Saric, though the team ultimately chose to add veteran NBA forward Kessler Edwards instead.
Croatian forward has played 9 NBA seasons for 7 teams, including the Suns and 76ers. He has averaged 10.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 498 regular-season games.
And-Ones: Saric, Beverley, Cap Room, Peterson https://t.co/mMBbYPLPOg pic.twitter.com/wDCr8HaTxX
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 24, 2026
