Virtus Segafredo Bologna has rapidly moved to strengthen its roster, announcing the acquisition of Serbian center Alen Smailagic. The 24-year-old arrives in Bologna after completing his tenure with Lithuanian EuroLeague participant Zalgiris Kaunas.
The club confirmed that Smailagic has already touched down in Bologna and is currently undergoing comprehensive medical examinations and performance tests. These procedures are expected to be finalized shortly, clearing the path for the formal signing of his contract. Virtus is set to secure the services of the promising young big man on a two-year agreement that includes an option for a third season, signaling a commitment to integrating him into the team`s long-term plans.
Smailagic gained notable attention early in his career when he made the leap to the NBA, spending two seasons with the Golden State Warriors after being selected in the second round of the 2019 draft. While his time in the United States was relatively brief, the experience provided exposure to the highest level of professional basketball, a unique element in his development pathway.
Following his NBA stint, Smailagic returned to Europe, becoming a key player for Serbian powerhouse Partizan Belgrade from 2021 to 2024. His most recent stop was with Zalgiris Kaunas. In the 2024-2025 EuroLeague campaign, he demonstrated efficiency in his role, averaging 8.1 points and 2.9 rebounds in just under 15 minutes per game, showcasing his ability to produce impactful contributions in limited court time.
For Virtus, the addition of Smailagic brings a blend of youth, international experience from top European leagues, and the intriguing factor of his NBA background. His signing is intended to provide reinforced depth and strategic options in the paint for Head Coach Luca Banchi as the team gears up for upcoming challenges in both domestic Italian competitions and the demanding EuroLeague schedule. It`s a pragmatic approach in roster construction: integrating a player with varied, high-level exposure, perhaps hoping that combining these experiences will unlock further potential within a structured system.
With medicals reportedly progressing as planned, Smailagic is on the cusp of officially joining Virtus Segafredo Bologna, adding another significant piece to their strategic assembly for the seasons ahead.
Elton Marrow