Boban Marjanovic, well-known for being Luka Doncic‘s best friend and a fan favorite in the NBA, is starting a new chapter in his career. After spending nine seasons in the NBA, playing for the San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, and most recently the Houston Rockets, Marjanovi has decided to return to Europe. Though his time on the court was often limited, his close friendship with Doni and his fun-loving personality made him a beloved figure in the basketball world.
Marjanovic’s friendship with Doncic blossomed during their time with the Dallas Mavericks, where their playful chemistry became a fan favorite. From social media antics to hilarious interviews, their bond was a major storyline off the court.
But despite his charm and popularity, Marjanovic’s role on the court diminished in recent years, especially with the Rockets, where he played just 14 games last season, averaging 5.1 minutes per game.
Faced with reduced playing time and uncertainty about his future in the NBA, Marjanovic made a bold move. Rather than accepting a smaller role, the 7-foot-4 center transformed his body, focusing on shedding weight and increasing his agility.
NBA veteran signs with Turkish powerhouse
His hard work paid off, and his toned physique caught the attention of Fenerbahce, one of Europe’s elite basketball teams. With a new deal in place, Marjanovic will now take his talents to Istanbul, where he’ll have the opportunity to contribute significantly to his new team.
Marjanovic’s decision to sign with Fenerbahce marks a return to his roots in European basketball, where he initially made a name for himself before joining the NBA. He was a dominant force in the Serbian Super League, earning MVP honors three times from 2013 to 2015. Now, with his body in top condition and his passion for the game reignited, he’s ready to make an impact on the EuroLeague stage once again.
Fenerbahce, based in Istanbul, offers Marjanovic a fresh start, and his experience in both the NBA and European leagues positions him as a valuable asset to the team. With his physical transformation and a renewed focus, Marjanovic is set to make waves in Turkey, proving that his basketball journey is far from over.
